Domaine de Marcoux Châteauneuf-du-Pape | 2019

Pioneers in organic and biodynamic farming, the Armenier sisters founded their estate in 1989 and consistently deliver one of the best traditional Châteauneuf reds for the price point. Sourced from thirteen plots, covering a mix of terroirs (clays, gravels, sands, and limestone), all the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault berries are de-stemmed, prior to fermentation in tank. Aged mostly in cement, the Marcoux style is one of elegance within decadence. Lacquered red fruits coat the palate with nuances of grilled meat, garrigue, and pepper. It's quintessentially a big wine with big alcohol, but Marcoux, somehow, manages to capture that cool breeze, freshness, and bliss in a warm climate — the perfect gift for any Rhône lover. ~Allegra A