2018 Alban Vineyards Pandora

99 Jeb Dunnuck

The 2018 Pandora is all Grenache and comes from a higher elevation site of pure chalky soils. It's a much more powerful expression of Grenache and has a stacked bouquet of red and dark fruits, chalky minerality, camphor, black licorice, and subtle incense notes. Reminding me of a Châteauneuf du Pape from the likes of Paul Daumen's Vieille Julienne, this full-bodied, deep, concentrated 2018 is perfectly balanced, has ultra-fine tannins, and a great, great finish. It's another magical wine from this incredible winemaker. Hide bottles for 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 15+.