2013 Chante Cigale Ch̢teauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes cherry nose starts this wine

cherry nose starts this wine off on the right foot

which is on a par with the best versions from Piedmont

The less expensive label for Paul Hobbs is his Crossbarn label

Not that the wine has ever been herbal or green

and they age nicely as well

2013 Chante Cigale Ch̢teauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes cherry nose starts this wineFeatures a hearty core of black currant, fig and blackberry fruit inlaid with prominent tobacco and chestnut leaf notes that impart a decidedly old school feel. Shows plenty of flesh and drive through the finish, which has a tarry underpinning. Should unwind in the cellar. Best from 2018 through 2028. 360 cases made. (JM)