This has an intense core of crushed plum, raspberry and boysenberry fruit flavors, draped with melted licorice notes and backed by a wave of warm fruitcake. Hedonistic for sure, but accents of anise, violet and singed apple wood dart around, adding extra facets of intrigue to hold your attention. Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2020 through 2040. 600 cases made. –JM

The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Renaissance is a gem and as always is a 60/40 split of Grenache and Mourvèdre brought up in demi-muids and smaller barrels (one-third new). Blackcurrants, blackberries, wine marinade, licorice, and pepper all emerge from this opulent, incredibly sexy beauty that has full-bodied richness, sweet tannin and more mid-palate depth and richness than most. It’s going to need 3-4 years of cellaring to hit its stride and last for 15+.

The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Renaissance is a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvèdre. It's a super ripe and plush wine, loaded with dark cherries, cola and baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg (the Mourvèdre component is aged in oak). With its soft tannins and touch of warmth on the finish, it should be consumed relatively young. - Joe Czerwinski