The 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes derives from parcels planted on classic clay and galets roulés soils. It's 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% other varieties. Tight, intense, even clenched, it's in need of several years' cellaring before it becomes truly enjoyable to drink. For now, those gorgeous black cherries are restrained behind a firm wall of tannins. Full-bodied and rich, this is ripe, it just requires patience.

Saturated ruby. Displays intensely perfumed, spice-accented black and blue fruit, floral oil and candied licorice qualities on the nose. Offers powerful cherry liqueur, black raspberry, fruitcake and exotic spice flavors that tighten up through the back half. There's surprising energy here given the wine's volume. Velvety tannins frame a strikingly long, spicy finish that strongly echoes the cherry and floral notes.