2018 Domaine de la Solitude Vin de la Solitude Chateauneuf du Pape

"This wine is the result of a cofermentation of nine different regional grapes (red and white) added to the vat as they mature. A showcase of balance in contrast to the big Grenache-dominant styles popular today, it's a spirited, delightfully pure-fruited red marked by crisp red-currant and sour-cherry flavors, with nuances of bramble, earth and smoked tea leaves. Breathtaking and spry, it's at peak now through 2035." - Anna Lee C. Iljima Review Date: May 2021

"Based on just about every variety permitted (some white varieties as well), the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Le Vin De La Solitude is inspired by the writings of Major Ducos, who was a prior owner of Château de la Nerthe. The grapes were all harvested at separate times yet added to the same tank, resulting in very long alcoholic fermentation (1 month) and a total maceration time of 80 days. This singular beauty sports a medium ruby hue to go with an incredibly exotic bouquet of redcurrants, framboise, mulled strawberries, white flowers, cedary garrigue, and classy leather. This all carries to a medium to full-bodied red with beautiful overall balance, silky tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. It's a singular, gorgeously complex wine that tastes like a Grand Cru Burgundy made in the South of France. Maturity 2020-2030." - Jeb Dunnuck Review Date: October 2020

"Steeped raspberry, plum and black cherry fruit flavors are held together with finely beaded acidity, while black tea and dried anise hints add range and nuance, showing latent depth and length. This grows on you. Counoise, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Roussanne and Grenache Blanc. Drink now through 2032. 50 cases imported." - James Molesworth Review Date: May 2021