La Bernardine, Châteauneuf du Pape, M. Chapoutier 2017

• Vintage: 2017
  
• Origin: Rhone Valley, France
• Varietal blend: Mainly Grenache, with a splash of Syrah and Mourvedre. Aged in concrete vats so unoaked.
  
• Taste guide: A complex but subtle nose with aromas of blackcurrant and plum followed by roasted coffee, cinnamon and morello cherry. On the palate it is rich, spicy and fruity with development of plum, liquorice and cinnamon. Balanced, long finish is a joy. Allow to breathe/decant first.
  
• Food Pairing: A good beef stew, BBQ beef (if it’s more of a summer thing), lamb chops or duck dishes also good for this one.
• 75cl - 14.5% abv - Traditional Cork Closure

Quaternary terrace, with a surface of shingles coming from the former bed of the Rhône. The grapes are carefully selected during the harvesting. Compulsory to obtain the Appellation, this sorting allows to have the best bunches of grapes.

The story began with Michel Chapoutier, a unique man with a thirst for knowledge, definitely one of a kind. Michel is openminded and always willing to learn. He seeks to discover and reflect the full potential of his terroirs and let the soils express their true character. That which gives the wines their signature style. This now forms the basis of the M. CHAPOUTIER ethos and the team strives to reveal the very best of what the soils have to offer.

The family motto “Fac et Spera” – do and hope – says it all. Two words that sum up all the patience and daring that this art demands: patience in relation to nature which presides; daring for the winemaker, who observes, chooses and assists.

More recent vintages are selling for £36+ elsewhere and it’s tough to find this one anywhere near £30. Great price of £27.99 to clear here.