2020 le Clos du Caillou, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, La Reserve

A blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvèdre from sandy parcels in Guigasse and Pignan, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape La Reserve is a stupendous wine, even if it didn't quite reach the triple-digit heights I hoped it would when tasted out of barrel. Complex notes of crushed stone, pressed flowers, intricate herbal shadings and mixed berries mark the nose, while the full-bodied palate is unimaginably silky and near-endless on the finish.

The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Réserve is an instant classic. Swirling the glass unlocks ripe red and black fruits amid traces of lavender, black tea, licorice, crushed violets and a dash of white pepper. Full-bodied with a laser-like focus, the 15.31% alcohol is flawlessly tucked within the wine's frame. Finishing with outstanding purity and length, the 2020 La Réserve is a must-buy for Le Clos du Caillou enthusiasts.