2016 Clos Saint Michel Châteauneuf-du-Pape 'Grand Clos'

Only made in top vintages (and even then, not always), the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee Grand Clos is 100% Mourvèdre. Tasted blind, I had no idea it was 100% Mourvèdre, but it certainly stood out for its complexity and lusciousness. Peppery herbs accent strawberry fruit up front, while the full-bodied palate is creamy and intense, with darker notes of black cherries and attractive anise notes coming through on the long, silky finish. Wow.