Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes Marcoux 2023 (750ML)

Domaine de Marcoux makes its Vieilles Vignes in far smaller quantities than its classic Châteauneuf-du-Pape: 100% Grenache from vines more than a century old in the Charbonnière and Esqueirons parcels, fermented in concrete and aged in foudres. Sophie Armenier runs the estate with her son Vincent, who is taking a growing role in the vineyards. Set beside the classic bottling, the 2023 has more ripeness, weight and concentration, and slightly higher alcohol. Deep ruby, it offers ripe red and black cherry, wild herbs, flowers and warm Provençal spice on a medium- to full-bodied palate with very fine tannins and real purity. A saline freshness keeps it lively and should help it build complexity in bottle. One critic would start opening it in 2027; another sees it drinking well into the 2040s. Try it with braised lamb shoulder, beef daube or ratatouille.