Cuvée du Vatican Réserve de l'Abbé Côtes du Rhône 2020

Robert Parker is a long-time devotee of Cuvée du Vatican (theirs was the first case of Châteauneuf-du-Pape he ever bought—a wine that’s largely credited with launching his decades-long career). The label’s also been a favorite of the papacy since 1958, when Pope John XXIII blessed Cuvée du Vatican. (They still send a case to Rome each year.)

Your taste of the estate is winemaker Jean-Marc Diffonty’s Côtes-du-Rhône Réserve. Gilbert & Gaillard judges awarded the 2020 release a gold medal and wrote, “Crisp nose of jammy red and black berries with a floral sensation. Dense palate gifted with a charming burst of fruit and polished tannins. Fresh, energetic finish.”

It’s a classic Rhône blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, left unoaked to allow all the juicy notes of ripe cherry and strawberry to shine through in your glass. Also look for hints of licorice and wild herb, plus a long, smooth finish. Drinking deliciously now, but don’t be afraid to hide a few bottles away to enjoy over the next few years (we love it with lamb or beef dishes).

Monsieur Diffonty’s a stickler about quality, and only makes limited amounts of his Réserve de l’Abbé—get in now to secure your share.