Domaine du Vieux Lazaret Domaine du Vieux Lazaret Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2022 750ml

Steeped black cherry and singed anise notes are fluid and smooth in this streamlined red, layered with lavender, roasted apple wood smoke and charred herbs. Ripe, with good freshness, this ripples with chalky minerality, adding textural intrigue. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Carignan, Counoise, Terret, Picpoul, Muscardin, Picardan, Bourboulenc, Clairette and Roussanne. Drink now through 2032. 25,000 cases made, 4,000 cases imported.

Candied cherries, sweet cranberries and a touch of stewed herbs. Lightly chewy in terms of tannins, with a fluid center palate and a medium-length finish. A bit overripe, but approachable. A good, simple Chateauneuf that shows early appeal. Drink now.

Spiced red and black cherries, peppery garrigue, and sappy, floral notes all emerge from the 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape Domaine Du Vieux Lazaret, a satisfying, charming, nicely textured and balanced 2022. Drink bottles over the coming 7-8 years.