Le Clos du Caillou Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Quartz 2021

Checking in at 14.5% alcohol, the 2021 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Quartz is a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah. It displays a fragrant perfume of redcurrant, cranberry, raspberry, dried herbs, white pepper and a dazzling floral element of rose petals. On the palate, it is full-bodied, concentrated and tightly structured with a muscular profile framed by ripe tannins. Perfectly balanced by lively acids, there's excellent persistence on the long finish.

The 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Quartz is 80% Grenache and the rest mostly Syrah, with the Grenache brought up in demi-muid and the Syrah in barriques. Its deeper ruby hue is followed by a beautiful 2021 offering darker cherry and black raspberry fruit as well as notes of black olive, flowers, and peppery garrigue. This beauty is medium-bodied, has a supple, elegant mouthfeel, quality tannins, and a great finish. It's not going to compete with the top vintages at this great estate, but it's a beautiful, layered, elegant wine that will put a smile on your face over the coming 10-12 years.

Perhaps a bit less expansive than some other vintages, the 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Quartz is still a terrific effort. Scents of crushed stone and crystalized red berries appear on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is more linear and crisp. Some readers may even prefer this style of vintage for its focus and restraint.

Supple in form, with distinctive sanguine meatiness and singed bacon fat underscoring attractive lavender and blue and red fruit. Reveals red tea and salty mineral details on the silky, caressing palate, with grilled apple wood lining the finish. Grenache and Syrah. Drink now through 2032. 700 cases made, 108 cases imported.