Guillaume Gonnet, Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge Bel Ami

The classic blend of Grenache and Syrah. A match made in heaven. A red and black fruit bouquet, of cherries and blackberries, a hint of garrigue, liquorice and spice. A fine wine. On the palate black raspberry flavours dominate, while the tannins are ripe and supple, easing into a long, warm finish.

The soils are made up of round pebbles on the surface, sand, clay and limestone. The vines are very old and average 50 to 90 years old, planted at a density of 3500 vines per HA, planted on a South East facing vineyard. All grapes are hand harvested.

Vinified and aged in various ways, split roughly into thirds. 30% Pyramid shaped concrete vats, 30% wooden vats, 30% stainless steel, and 10% demi muids (600L) barrels. With only 40% therefore in oak, the fruit expression is beautifully retained and enhanced.