The vintage – 2020 Following a mild, wet winter that replenished groundwater reserves, the season was notable for its precocity. Frost damage from the episode of March 25 was, very fortunately, limited, and in the course of the equally mild and damp spring that ensued, regular applications of tisanes and essential oils effectively protected the crop. Flowering that started in the second week of May confirmed the early nature of the vintage. The plentiful water resources accumulated over winter and the occasional summer showers ensured a progressive and optimum ripening of the grapes. The harvest was particularly splendid and picking lasted from August 25 to the final days of September. Terroir Châteauneuf-du-Pape is characterized by its diversity of soils. Mosaic of planted plots, on soils of limestone, pebbles, on a clay bottom more or less loaded with iron, and safres (fine sands). In the vineyard The grapes are hand-picked and sorted in the vineyard. Winemaking Co-fermentation, long vatting for soft extractions. Ageing Matured for 12 months in conical vats, foudres and barrels. Wine Spectator An elegant red, with nice freshness and purity to the wild cherry, plum and red licorice flavors. Shows a spine of crushed graphite that firms up the somewhat structured palate, with charred garrigue and sandalwood on the finish James Molesworth Wine Spectator , 94