Delas Chateauneuf-du-Pape Haute Pierre 2021 (1x75cl)

The Delas Frères 'Haute Pierre' Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2021 represents a distinguished expression from the Southern Rhône Valley's most revered appellation. Châteauneuf-du-Pape, renowned for its unique terroir of 'galets roulés' (large, rounded stones) that absorb and radiate heat, fosters the optimal ripening of its thirteen permitted grape varieties. Delas Frères, a house with a venerable history dating back to 1835, meticulously crafts this cuvée from select parcels, primarily featuring old-vine Grenache, complemented by Syrah and Mourvèdre.

The 'Haute Pierre' designation signifies a commitment to quality and site-specific character. The 2021 vintage, while presenting its own challenges, yielded wines of notable freshness and aromatic precision, offering a more elegant counterpoint to the region's typically opulent expressions. Vinification typically involves traditional methods, with ageing in a combination of large oak foudres and smaller barrels to impart structure and complexity without overshadowing the fruit's inherent purity and the wine's profound sense of place.

Tasting notes

The 2021 Delas 'Haute Pierre' Châteauneuf-du-Pape presents a complex aromatic profile, opening with vibrant notes of red cherry and raspberry, interwoven with classic garrigue herbs, white pepper, and a subtle hint of liquorice. On the palate, it reveals a medium to full-bodied structure, marked by refined tannins and a refreshing acidity that underscores the vintage's character. Flavours of ripe red fruits persist, complemented by savoury undertones and a mineral edge. The finish is long and harmonious, suggesting excellent ageing potential, allowing for further development of its intricate layers.