Domaine de La Solitude Châteauneuf-du-Pape (75cl, 15.5%)

Domaine de La Solitude Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a Southern Rhône red from one of the appellation's historic estates, produced since the 17th century. The red cuvée is 60% Grenache, partly from vines over 100 years old, with 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault and 5% Counoise, proportions varying slightly by vintage. It is aged 15 to 16 months in 90% concrete tanks and 10% French oak barrels, and the vineyards are farmed organically on 50% galets roulés and 50% sandy soils. The nose shows ripe raspberries, black cherries, violets, spring flowers, orange peel and licorice. The palate is round and silky, with sweet cherry, black raspberry, kirsch, cocoa and peppery spice alongside integrated tannins. The finish is long, plush and creamy, with licorice and dark fruit.