M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf du Pape La Bernardine 2021 750ml

The 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Bernardine was matured for 15 months in concrete vats. It is a fleshy wine revealing pronounced aromas of rose petals, garrigue, cardamom, strawberry, raspberry and licorice. Moving seamlessly across the palate, the 2021 Le Bernardine is a delicious, full-bodied red with polished tannins, ending with a savory finish. I actually prefer this one to its 2020 sibling due to the increased freshness. Rting: (91-93)

A textural, refined and velvety Chateauneuf-du-Pape with aromas of forest berries, wet stones, roasted meat, wild herbs and some bark. It’s medium- to full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. There is a refined texture here, silky at the center, with a delicate core of dark cherries challenged by an intense array of spices that provide verve and energy.

Composed of 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 5% Mourvèdre, Chapoutier's blended 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape la Bernardine comes together later than the estate bottlings, so it was still in tank during my summer visit. Scents of dusty earth and fresh-turned loam are complemented by hints of ripe cherries and black olives. Rating: (89-91)

Blackberries, ripe cherries, Provençal garrigue, sandalwood, and savory flower notes all define the aromatics of the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Bernardine, a pretty, balanced, elegant Châteauneuf du Pape with fine tannin as well as beautiful balance.