From all old vines on the mostly pebbly soils of the Mont Redon lieu-dit, with small amounts from Pignan (Nord), Barbe d’Asne, and Brusquière, the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape Chante Le Merle Vieilles Vignes was not destemmed and was brought up all in foudre and demi-muids. Another gorgeous wine, its notes of black cherries, black raspberries, pepper, cured meats, and graphite give way to more floral and sappy nuances with air. Medium-bodied, with a pure, focused, elegant mouthfeel, it has plenty of underlying tannins and outstanding length. It needs 3-4 years of bottle age (rare for a 2023) and will see its 20th birthday in fine form. Drink 2028-2043.
95 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Nov 2025)
The classy 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Chante Le Merle Vieilles Vignes stands shoulder to shoulder with the preceding vintage, offering up pronounced strawberry jam, kirsch, licorice and peppery accents. Full-bodied and well balanced by fresh acidity, the 2023 is structured around finely sculpted tannins, checking out with vivid energy and impressive resonance on the complex finale.
94 points, Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous (Oct 2025)
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