Typically one of the top wines of any vintage, the Secret de Sabon is a magnificent Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and 2022 is another great example of this cuvee. Founded in 1952, Roger Sabon is one of the most prestigious domains in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and even though his sons Denis, Gilbert, and son-in-law Didier now run the Domaine, nothing has changed. They carry on the same Sabon Tradition, with Denis maintaining their vineyards, Gilbert handling the business side, and Didier as winemaker. The Sabon wines exude elegance in an area where wines can get heavy, and while these are big wines, there is a level of finesse that keeps them in check, with a refinement that fans of cooler-climate wines can appreciate. The domaine's specialty is Grenache, the main varietal that goes into the 'Secret de Sabon' sourced from vines over 100 years old. Most of the techniques used to make this wine are a family secret, hence the name, but whatever it is, it is undoubtedly working. An outstanding bottle, and once again, the 2022 is one to consider for those who enjoy some of the best Chateauneuf du Pape has to offer, especially at this friendly pricing, and it is a bit like Rayas but at a much lower price point. We have a limited amount at this low pricing today and not a bottle of CDP to miss this vintage!

Jeb Dunnuck 97 points! "From a hot, dry year, the 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape Le Secret Des Sabon is another big, rich wine that stays more focused and tight compared to the broader 2023 while still bringing full-bodied richness. Ripe black cherries, roasted garrigue, cured meats, and peppery spice define the aromatics, and it's beautifully concentrated, rich, and textured on the palate with ripe tannins. It will shine for two decades. Drink 2025-2045."

Vinous 95 points! "Pronounced lavender, forest strawberry, black cherry, licorice, crushed violets and a pinch of white pepper frame the multifaceted 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Le Secret de Sabon. Firmly assembled like a skyscraper, the structured 2022 packs remarkable intensity on the full-bodied palate yet balances it with fresh acidity. In terms of quality, I’d place the 2022 right between the 2020 and 2021 vintages, all three cruising at similarly high altitudes."

James Suckling 95 points! "A solid, well-built and vertical red with aromas of dark berries, dark plums, grilled herbs, warm spices and a touch of black pepper. Full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Nice fruit at the center, with an array of dark cherries and blueberries mingling with the spices. The solid frame of tannins brings discipline and drive to the peppery finish. Try after 2028."

Wine Advocate 95 points! "A blend of 95% Grenache Noir and 5% of several authorized varieties, the 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape le Secret de Sabon exhales delicate, elegant notes of dark cherries, flowers, spices, licorice and dark wild berries. Medium to full-bodied, enveloping and suave, it's layered and textured with a fleshy core of fruit, concluding with a long, spicy finish. Macerated for 35 days and partly destemmed, this is a great effort."

Rhone - Prearrivals