M. Chapoutier La Bernardine Rouge 2022

M. Chapoutier La Bernardine Rouge comes from Maison Chapoutier, an independent family house founded in 1808 that farms biodynamically across the northern and southern Rhône. This is a Châteauneuf-du-Pape built around Grenache, at roughly 90 percent, with smaller portions of Syrah and Mourvèdre. The terraced vineyards are covered in galets roulés, the large rounded stones that store the day's heat and release it overnight, helping the fruit reach the full ripeness this warm southern site demands. The Mediterranean climate and that heat-retaining soil drive Grenache to high sugar and generous alcohol, while Syrah adds colour and pepper and Mourvèdre brings structure and a savoury, meaty edge. Biodynamic farming underpins the vineyard work. The wine is fermented and raised to soften tannin and knit the varieties together while keeping the fruit to the fore. The colour is deep ruby. The nose is ripe and warming, with red and black cherry, kirsch, garrigue herbs and black pepper over a stony, savoury base. The palate is full bodied and generous, with rounded tannin, warming alcohol and a long, spiced finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees, decanted ahead. It suits roast and braised meats.