Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2022

A well-built, round and textured red made of 40% grenache, 35% syrah, 20% mourvedre and 5% cinsault. Medium- to full-bodied with finely grained tannins. It’s velvety, yet it has plenty of intensity, with a constant kick of peppercorns throughout. Ample but focused with a caressing texture and a deliciously fruity finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold [into mid-2030s+]. (jamessuckling.com,April 9, 2024)