The La Crau de Ma Mère from Mayard is an excellent example of the Rhône's iconic Châteauneuf-du-Pape reds. Made up of centenary vines of Grenache augmented by 10% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, the nose is all heady black cherry and clove. It shares the same vivid black fruit flavours as the “tradition” or standard-label bottling from Mayard but with a richness of concentration and texture that's thrilling. Matured 18 months in foudre, its mulberry and preserved plum flavours are luscious, finishing with a dusting of char, basalt and delicate, lingering tannins.