2019 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve Secrète, Domaine de la Solitude
With only 1,200 bottles produced, the Cuvée Réserve Secrète 2019 is a "giant Châteauneuf that retains its vibrancy and lift despite its immense concentration and powerful tannin structure," as described by James Suckling. A blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah from organically grown grapes, it offers intense dark fruit aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant, and subtle empyreumatic notes. On the palate, the wine is dense and beautifully integrates flavors of cherry and cedar, leading to an intense, lingering finish that goes on and on. Aged for 18 months in barrel and another year in foudre, it’s a wine of remarkable depth and complexity.