Domaine Santa Duc : Le Pied de Baud 2022

With aromatic, delicate notes of dark cherries, licorice and fresh thyme, the 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape Le Pied de Baud possesses a medium- to full-bodied, juicy and elegant, textured and layered palate framed by precise, delicate tannins and a fleshy core of fruit that segues into a long, ethereal and floral finish. This blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre and 10% Cinsault was matured in foudres (from Stockinger) and jars. I like its overall balance and energy, and it should have two decades of longevity.

There’s supple elegance and a mineral-driven character to the crunchy red fruit and smoldering incense flavors on a fresh, balanced palate. Notes of smoked meat and cast iron make an impression toward the finish, with a waft of mesquite ash, sweet spices and gentle tannins. This is going for a different, more refined style of Châteauneuf. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. Drink now through 2038. 373 cases made, 50 cases imported.

Smooth, fine, silty tannins make their impression here. There’s good freshness; it’s a pure expression. Violets and spice, with a little smoky note. Not hugely long, but it has a lovely tannic line. Coplanted Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault on sand, galets and clay.

This is still quite closed, and is clearly a wine for the long term. Intense licorice, smoke and earthy character on the beautifully crafted, full-bodied palate. Very long, compact finish with a wonderful velvety texture. From a vineyard at the edge of the plateaus of Chateauneuf planted with grenache and mourvedre plus a small amount of cinsault. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink from release.

Cask sample. Also a little reduced on the nose. There is a gentle sweetness to the palate. A touch of herbal and garrigue notes, but always with energy. Fine, elegant tannins that are well proportioned and balanced within the frame of the wine. A lovely lick of acidity on the finish as well – graphite and smoke come through at the end. (AC)

Ripe raspberry, pencil shavings, blood orange, dried herbs and fleshy gradations unveil the 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Le Pied de Baud. Full-bodied, round and harmonious, the ambitious 2022 shines with elegance and class. It finishes with remarkable persistence on the complex finish.