Stylish and ripe, with a racy beam of graphite and acidity holding ripe cherry and raspberry coulis flavors aloft. Reveals red tea, lavender and wet earth on the palate, with vanilla and cedar accents bringing warmth. Though tasty now, this has chalky tannins that guarantee a long life in bottle. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2038.

A bigger, richer wine based on 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah, and 15% Mourvedre, the 2019 Chateauneuf Du Pape Cuvee Du Baron has terrific black cherry and red currant-like fruits as well as classic peppery garrigue, leather, spice-box, licorice, and lavender aromatics. More structured than the Tradition cuvee, it still has this wonderful sense of purity and elegance, terrific balance, and enough tannins to warrant 2-4 years of bottle age. This classic, old-school beauty matches what the estate was able to achieve in 2003, 2009, 2010, and 2016. It will drink well over the coming 15+ years.

The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Baron includes a higher proportion of Syrah than the regular cuvée, being a blend of 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah and 15% Mourvèdre. The estate considers Syrah something of specialty, and this does appear to have a bit more substance to it, delivering ripe black cherry and allspice flavors. Full-bodied, rich and velvety, it finishes with ample length. Best after 2023.