Le Prince de Courthézon Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2018

Châteauneuf du Pape is the most famous red of the southern Rhône, adored for its big spice and warm, ripe, velvety fruit. That’s particularly true in 2018, the wines of which show a delicious plumpness, yet still with an edge of freshness. Le Prince de Courthézon is made at Châteauneuf’s only co-operative winery by award winning winemaker Thierry Ferlay. All the grape growers are part-owners, so maximising quality is uppermost for them. They work with ancient, low yielding vines across the region to deliver not only a lovely intensity but also complexity too. It explains this wine’s impressive, medal winning record. Mostly Grenache, with Syrah and Mourvèdre adding colour and aromatic nuances. Serve with a hearty casserole or roast lamb.