M. Chapoutier Châteauneuf du Pape La Bernardine 2021

From the Winemaker:

The blending of grape varieties is a characteristic of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. In ”La Bernardine” red, Grenacheis the main grape used in the blend, with a smaller proportion of Syrah and Mourvèdre. Grenache is a grape variety that brings a natural sweetness to the blend, which gives the wine elegance, silky tannins and great finesse.

A complex but subtle nose with aromas of blackcurrant and plum followed by roasted coffee, cinnamon and morello cherry. On the palate it is spicy and fruity.

93 Points Vinous

"The 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Bernardine was matured for 15 months in concrete vats. It is a fleshy wine revealing pronounced aromas of rose petals, garrigue, cardamom, strawberry, raspberry and licorice. Moving seamlessly across the palate, the 2021 Le Bernardine is a delicious, full-bodied red with polished tannins, ending with a savory finish. I actually prefer this one to its 2020 sibling due to the increased freshness."

93 Points James Suckling

"A textural, refined and velvety Chateauneuf-du-Pape with aromas of forest berries, wet stones, roasted meat, wild herbs and some bark. It’s medium- to full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. There is a refined texture here, silky at the center, with a delicate core of dark cherries challenged by an intense array of spices that provide verve and energy."

91 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"Composed of 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 5% Mourvèdre, Chapoutier's blended 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape la Bernardine comes together later than the estate bottlings, so it was still in tank during my summer visit. Scents of dusty earth and fresh-turned loam are complemented by hints of ripe cherries and black olives."

90 Jeb Dunnuck

"Blackberries, ripe cherries, Provençal garrigue, sandalwood, and savory flower notes all define the aromatics of the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Bernardine, a pretty, balanced, elegant Châteauneuf du Pape with fine tannin as well as beautiful balance."