Château La Nerthe : Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2015

Ripe and bright, with a mix of plum, raspberry and blueberry fruit flavors that are well-defined, picking up anise as well as singed sandalwood and juniper notes along the way. The fruit stays persistent through the finish, with a perfumed hint filling in. Best from 2020 through 2035. 9,860 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.

An impressive nose with beautifully expressed ripe red cherry and raspberry fruits amid hints of wild herbs and subtly played spicy oak. The palate is seamless and carries pure red cherry and raspberry fruit long. Drink now.

Incense, smoke, black raspberry, thyme and garrigue come out to play. From there, the medium-bodied wine offers a sweet and tart, wild cherry profile, soft textures and an espresso- and smoke-filled, red berry finish. The wine was made blending 50% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, and 5% Cinsault.

Deep ruby, purple reflections, broad and bright rim. Delicate tobacco background, dark berry fruit, a touch of wood, nuances of orange zest. Medium complexity, fresh black cherries, integrated tannins, mineral finish, good freshness on the back palate.

I found the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape closed and reserved, with fresh notes of black cherries, cured meats, and peppery spice. Medium-bodied, fresh and nicely focused on the palate, I'd like to see more density here, but it's clean, well-made and balanced. Drink it over the coming decade.