Vinsrare.com - Rhone

2010 Ogier Cote Rotie Reserve du Domaine - $64.99

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 21:36:33 UTC

2010 Ogier Cote Rotie Reserve du Domaine - $64.99

2010 Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape 1.5ltr - $150.00

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 18:28:34 UTC

Performing considerably better than it did prior to bottling, the 2010 Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape is one of the all-time great Vieux Telegraphes I have tasted in the last 3+ decades. I believe it is even superior to the 2007, which I had several weeks ago. The 2010 boasts a dense purple color along with a sumptuous bouquet of spring flowers, boysenberries, black cherries, black currants, nori (the sushi seaweed wrapper), black olives, licorice and pepper. This full-bodied, meaty, thick, juicy effort possesses a boatload of tannin, but it also has incredible concentration. More massive than I remember from last year, it has put on considerable weight and intensity. Forget it for 3-4 years, and drink it over the following 25-30 years. Kudos to Daniel and Frederic Brunier! Wine Advocate 97

2010 Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape - $69.99

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:51:34 UTC

2010 Charvin Chateauneuf du Pape - $67.99

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:12:51 UTC

More backward and concentrated, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits a dark ruby/purple color as well as dense, black raspberry, black currant, garrigue, licorice and lavender characteristics. Full-bodied with undeniable elegance, minerality and precision, it needs 2-3 years of cellaring and should keep well for 15-20.

1999 Chave Hermitage Rouge - $329.99

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 23:01:47 UTC

The dense saturated purple-colored 1999 Hermitage had been bottled only 24 hours before my visit. It is a brilliant effort. The wine exhibits fabulous texture, purity, and sweetness as well as a finish that lasts for nearly a minute. There is high tannin, remarkably rich, concentrated extract, and tell-tale Hermitage fruit characteristics (blackberries, cassis), minerals, and spice. This is the greatest vintage Chave has produced since 1990. While it requires 7-10 years of cellaring, it will last for 4-5 decades. Parker 96

2010 J.L Chave Selections Cotes du Rhone Mon Coeur - $21.99

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 22:31:56 UTC

The star of this line-up in terms of value is the 2010 Cotes du Rhone Mon Coeur, a blend of Syrah and Grenache primarily from the southern Rhone (i.e., Vinsobres, Rasteau and Cairanne). This dense ruby/purple-colored, rich 2010 reveals kirsch and black currant fruit intermixed with notions of spice box, pepper and meat. Luscious and round, it is ideal for drinking over the next 5-6 years. Wine Advocate 88-90

6pk Price - $17.99/b

2009 Chave St Joseph - $46.99

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 22:30:09 UTC

The Chaves have a parcel called Bachasson, but in 2009, the fruit was all blended together, resulting in a fabulous 2009 St.-Joseph. Stunning notes of crushed rocks, black raspberries, sweet cherries, licorice and a liqueur of granite-like character emerge from the aromatics and flavors of this full-bodied wine, which also has admirable purity, focus and freshness. This is a great example of what one of the most conscientious people is doing in St.-Joseph, an appellation clearly on the ascendency. This 2009 should drink well for 10-15 years. Don't be surprised to see Chave's St.-Joseph rival Guigal's Vin des l'Hospices or Chapoutier's Les Granits. Wine Advocate 93

2009 Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape - $86.99

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 15:51:07 UTC

The 2009 is showing better out of bottle than it was last year. Gorgeous kirsch liqueur notes, raspberry jam, forest floor, spice box, new saddle leather and a peppery spiciness are all present in this deep, voluptuously textured, open-knit Clos des Papes, which is atypically forward, luscious and approachable already. These wines often need a good 5-10 years of cellaring in the more structured vintages, but the 2009 is gorgeous from the get-go. This full-bodied, deep, concentrated wine has a deep purple color and should drink well for 20-25 years without ever really closing down. Readers may want to think of this as a slightly more concentrated version of the 2003, which is one of the great stars of that vintage. Wine Advocate 95

This is one of the great estates in Chateauneuf du Pape, with a history that dates back to the mid-1700s. I believe the Avril family first estate-bottled wine in 1896. Clos des Papes, with its 90+ acres of vines spread among 24 separate parcels in the appellation, is one of the traditional hallmarks of classic, long-lived Chateauneuf du Pape. Everything is aged in old wood foudres, no old vine or luxury cuvee is produced, and the red wine is a classic blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah, and the rest Vaccarese, Counoise, and Muscardin. It is generally not fined or filtered after aging 15 months in these old wood foudres. The white wine is an equal-part blend of Grenache blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, Picpoul, Bourboulenc, and one could argue that it might possibly be the longest-lived dry white of the appellation. Tasting here is always a treat, but it takes a while to work through all the different lots and then look at the potential assembled version of the 2010. I was consistently rating each foudre between a low of 92 or 93 to a high of mid- to upper-90s. That is as impressive as 2010 is. Avril told me that the average alcohol in 2010 was high on all the different lots, which is in keeping with recent vintages. (The 2003 was 15.6%, and the 2007 was 15.7%, while the final assembled version of the 2010 is 15.9% and the 2009 is 15.6%.) The 2010, paradoxically, has relatively high acidity compared to other top vintages. Since I had a few extra moments, Vincent opened a 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc, which I rated 93. I thought it was still very fresh and lively. Of course, he ended our tasting with one of the all-time classics of Chateauneuf du Pape and of Clos des Papes, the 1990, which is close to perfection

2000 Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee - $79.99

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:43:54 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Feb 03
The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee may be one of the few 2000s that is better than its 1998 counterpart. A deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by sweet aromas of creme de cassis, kirsch liqueur, cedar, licorice, and pepper. It smells like an open-air Provencal market. Sweet, fat, opulent, and voluptuous, with fabulous fruit concentration, sweet tannin, and a long, 45+ second finish, this powerful, deep, seamless 2000 is impeccably well-balanced. A tour de force in traditional Chateauneuf du Pape, it is accessible now, but should age easily for 15-20 years. This is one of the benchmarks for traditionally-made Chateauneuf du Pape. Paul Feraud, a classmate of Henri Bonneau, is still involved in the running of this estate, but he has given more and more responsibility to his charming, talented daughter, Laurence. Readers looking for uncompromising Chateauneuf du Pape that can age for two decades need look no further than Pegau. Their primary vineyard plots are well-placed lieux-dits called Monpertuis, Rayas, and La Crau, the latter being the parcel from which the bulk of Pegau's wine emerges. 95 points

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 03
Full ruby-red. Liqueur-like aromas of black raspberry, black cherry and licorice. Lush, fat and full in the mouth, with superb concentration and richness. A seamless wine with great Chateauneuf du Pape character. Complicating notes of tar and chocolate. Finishes with dusty, broad tannins and great persistence. This can be enjoyed now with the right dishes but should age gracefully. 93 points

2003 Janasse Cotes du Rhone - $15.99

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:40:49 UTC

2003 Janasse Cotes du Rhone - $15.99

2003 Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee 1.5ltr - $275.00

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:39:40 UTC

2003 Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee 1.5ltr - $275.00

2003 Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin - $69.99

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:37:44 UTC

Gorgeously sweet aromas of black raspberries, cherries, and flowers jump from the glass of the inky ruby/purple-colored 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin. With a structured mouthfeel, superb intensity, moderately high tannin, and a long, heady, concentrated finish, it will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age, and should drink well for 15+ years. Parker 95 Points

2004 Clos St Jean Chateauneuf Deus Ex Machina - $96.99

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:28:44 UTC

The top cuvee, the 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Deus-Ex Machina, a blend of 60% Grenache from ancient vines aged in foudres and 40% Mourvedre aged in small barrels, might well turn out to be the wine of the vintage. It is one of the few 2004s that can compete with the dozen or so monumental wines produced in Chateauneuf du Pape in 2003. This wine is dense ruby/purple to the rim, has a stunning nose of blackberry, crushed roasted Provencal herbs, and rich aged beef-like smells. The wine is sweet from glycerin and richness rather than any residual sugar as it is totally dry. It has fabulous texture, great purity, and stunning complexity and length. This is a real blockbuster wine that totally transcends the vintage character. Drink it over the next 12-15+ years. Parker 95

2005 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape - $29.99

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:25:17 UTC

Wine Spectator, September 2007
Taut and reserved for now, with red plum and red currant notes held back by sinewy tannins and a racy minerality. Has solid length, and the flesh should fill out with cellaring. Best from 2008 through 2022. 92 points

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 07
Medium red. Bright red berries on the nose, with subtle floral accents. In a fresh, elegant style, with vibrant raspberry and strawberry flavors and very fine, fully absorbed tannins. Finishes with silky-sweet red fruits, a bright mineral note and excellent length. 91-94 points

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Feb 2007
The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Tradition, a 100% destemmed cuvee produced from 25 hectoliters per hectare and aged 80% in old wood foudres and 20% in tank, is dense purple with terrific fruit notes of raspberry, black cherry, and even some black currant and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, with good acidity, moderate tannin, and outstanding ripeness and length, this wine will be at its best in 2-3 years, and drink well for 12-15. 92-94 points

2007 Les Bosquet des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape - $36.99

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:14:15 UTC

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape, a sleeper of the vintage, is one of the finest traditional cuvees they have made. Its dark ruby/purple color is followed by a medium to full-bodied wine revealing classic Provencal aromas of pepper, garrigue, black cherries, plums, and a hint of earth. Pure, broad, and savory with silky tannins and a lush personality, this fruit-filled Chateauneuf is ideal for drinking over the next 10-12 years. One of the ancient families of Chateauneuf du Pape, the Boirons trace their origins and winemaking back to the mid-1800s. All of the following 2007s performed as well or slightly better than they did prior to bottling, always a good sign. It appears that only one wine will be offered in 2008. RP:91

2009 Brunel Chateauneuf Les Cailloux - $39.99

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:00:51 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Oct 2011
The Les Cailloux 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape (70% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and the rest Syrah and other permitted grape varieties) may be the finest regular cuvee produced at this estate, even eclipsing the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape. A beautiful deep, plum/garnet color is followed by notes of ripe figs, licorice, tobacco leaf, sweet herbs, pepper and sumptuous quantities of kirsch and blacker fruits. Intense and full-bodied with silky tannins as well as a plump, sexy, voluptuous style, it begs for consumption now and over the next 10-15 years. 95 points

2010 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape - $79.99

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:00:11 UTC

$85) Interestingly enough, even though many of the 2010 Perrin et Fils selections from the southern Rhone were scheduled to be bottled right after my visit, the 2010 Beaucastel had already been put in bottle. This is a gorgeous wine, a classic blend of 30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise and the balance the other permitted varietals in the appellation. Deep purple, with loads of bouquet garni, beef blood, blackberry, kirsch, smoke and truffle, this wine is full-bodied, rich and showing even better than it did last year. I still think it needs 3-5 years of cellaring, and it should last for 25-30 years, as most of the top vintages of Beaucastel do. Parker 95

2007 Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee - $89.99

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 23:54:14 UTC

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 2010
($85-$100) Opaque ruby. The highly perfumed nose offers an exotic array of red and dark berries, spicecake and potpourri, with hints of smoky herbs and olive adding complexity. Juicy and fresh for a wine that's over 15% alcohol, offering sweet raspberry and cherry flavors framed by silky tannins. Very suave and open-knit today, with excellent finishing clarity and smoky persistence. Â 94 points

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, October 2009
The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee (of which I was lucky to find a magnum on a Paris bistro's wine list a week after my tasting at the estate) is a brilliant effort that ranks alongside the colossal 2003 Cuvee Reservee. A blend of approximately 85% Grenache, 8-9% Syrah, and the rest Mourvedre and other varietals from 50-100+ year old vines aged in foudre, it exhibits a dense plum/purple color along with a big, sweet bouquet of beef blood, grilled herbs, barbecue smoke, lavender, sweet cassis and kirsch and a hint of Asian soy. The wine possesses a fabulous texture, a full-bodied mouthfeel and a seamless integration of tannin, acidity and alcohol. Certainly the alcohol level is pushing 16% in this wine. With extraordinary texture and unctuosity, this remarkable effort should drink well for 20+ years yet be very appealing in its youth given the glycerin, velvety texture, and remarkable complexity. Â 95 points

2006 Marcoux Chateauneuf du Pape - $69.99

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 23:35:39 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, October 2007
The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape, which achieved 15.5% natural alcohol, exhibits a dark ruby/purple color along with a big, sweet nose of framboise, blackberries, black currants, sweet cherries, roasted herbs, and hints of licorice as well as incense. Full-bodied, opulent, and fleshy with light to moderate tannin in the finish, it should drink well for 15 or more years. This brilliant estate in the northern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape is admirably run by Sophie and Catherine Armenier. They continue to fine tune the wines produced at this biodynamically farmed vineyard, and their white Chateauneuf du Pape is now one of the three or four finest of the appellation. 91-93 points

Stephen Tanzer's Int'l Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 2008
Bright red. Energetic red berry and cherry aromas are brightened by minerals, dried flowers and anise. Racy redcurrant and wild strawberry flavors are braced by youthful tannins and become sweeter with air, finishing with great snap and sappy length. Reminds me of an elegant Chambolle-Musigny. 91-94 points

2006 Charvin Chateauneuf du Pape - $69.99

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 23:20:31 UTC

Charvin's 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape has turned out to be one of the vintage's top efforts. Lovely sweet notes of glove leather, roasted meats, spice box, ground pepper, kirsch, and raspberries are present in this deep, full-bodied 2006. More evolved than the 2007, with copious concentration, elegance, and a Burgundy grand cru-like complexity as well as freshness, it should be enjoyed over the next 12-15+ years.

2010 Yves Gangloff Cote Rotie Sereine Noire - $125.00

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 07:13:47 UTC

2010 Yves Gangloff Cote Rotie Sereine Noire - $125.00

2010 Yves Gangloff Cote Rotie Barbarine - $79.99

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 07:11:53 UTC

2010 Yves Gangloff Cote Rotie Barbarine - $79.99

2010 Delas Hermitage Les Bessards - $249.99

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:35:35 UTC

The uber-impressive 2010 Hermitage Les Bessards ranks alongside the perfect 2009. The strikingly intense powdered stone/granite minerality is apparent in this wine of great intensity, prodigious, almost skyscraper-like texture, massive body and high tannins. It is only for true connoisseurs who have a cold cellar as well as the patience to wait a minimum of a decade for it to round into drinking form. Filled with potential, it is one of the single greatest Hermitages I have ever tasted. There is no hint of its 100% new oak aging! WA 100

2010 Delas Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes - $79.99

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:33:04 UTC

One of the finest Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes I have ever tasted is the 2010, which comes close to rivaling their prodigious 2009. A wine of great intensity, it possesses an inky/purple color, plenty of creme de cassis, licorice, lead pencil shavings, camphor, flint and barbecue smoke characteristics, and a thickness and viscosity that eclipse that of the 2009. Full-bodied and powerful with sweet tannins, a striking floral/mineral component in the mid-palate, and a huge, massive finish, this brilliant Hermitage should be consumed between 2018-2035. WA 96

2009 Guigal Cote Rotie Chateau d Ampuis - $115.00

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 10:08:57 UTC

The 2009 Cote Rotie Chateau d'Ampuis should turn out to be spectacular. Its dense purple color is accompanied by notes of camphor, incense, jammy black raspberries and blackberries, smoky barbecue, charcoal, graphite and licorice. Full-bodied, succulent and opulent, this flamboyant vintage has produced a stunning Cote Rotie that can be drunk young or cellared for two decades or more.

2008 Clos St Jean Chateauneu du Pape La Combe des Fous - $109.99

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:12:24 UTC

Another shocker in the best sense is the 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape La Combe des Fous. As I wrote last year, this is one of the most complex and concentrated wines of the vintage. An extraordinary perfume of white chocolate, roasted Provencal herbs, lavender, licorice, black cherries and sweet black currants is followed by a broad, expansively flavored wine with a superb full-bodied texture, terrific purity and a 40+ second finish. In fact, the tannins are such that 1-2 years of bottle age may be beneficial. This 2008 should evolve for 15 years. It is almost impossible to believe that something like this could have been achieved in this vintage. Parker 94

2009 Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Combe des Fous - $149.99

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:06:20 UTC

More restrained as well as less intense and powerful, the dense purple-hued 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape La Combe des Fous offers elegant kirsch notes. While it is not quite up to the level of the 2005, 2007 or 2010, it is a rich, well proportioned effort offering notes of pen ink, raspberries, blueberries, sweet cherries and spring flowers. Full-bodied as well as polished and focused (especially for a 2009), it should drink nicely for 15-20 years. Parker 96

2005 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf Cuvee Mon Aieul - $84.99

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:59:51 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Oct 07
The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul is 95% Grenache and 5% Syrah aged 100% in tank prior to being bottled. This wine always comes from the three best parcels of the estate â€" Les Serres, La Crau, and Guignasse. This hugely concentrated, muscular wine is very powerful, excruciatingly tannic at present, but super-rich. Yields were a low 22 hectoliters per hectare because of the drought, and this blockbuster, muscular, virile style of wine needs at least 5-6 years of bottle age and should keep for two-plus decades. It is certainly a terrific Mon Aieul, but for those who are very patient. This estate has been on an outrageous run of successful vintages ever since 1998, no small thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the two brothers, Jean-Pierre and Thierry Usseglio. For them 2005 is a very structured, concentrated, powerful vintage that will require significant cellaring. 94 points

Wine Spectator, September 2007
Shows the great, embedded structure of the vintage, with a strong graphite undertow pushing the layers of blackberry, boysenberry and plum fruit, while additional sweet spice, mocha and bittersweet cocoa notes fill in the background. Packed with fruit and terroir, with a gorgeous mouthfeel. Best from 2008 through 2027 96 points

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 07
Saturated ruby. Explosive aromas of blackberry, cherry and licorice, along with an intense floral note. Impressively fleshy and mouthfilling, with dense, sweet red and dark berry flavors, a subtle garrigue quality and supple tannins. Lush, creamy and extremely long on the finish, with a dominant flavor of ripe blackcurrant. 93-96 points

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Feb 2007
There are 17,000 bottles of the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Mon Aieul (90% Grenache in this vintage and 10% Syrah). Dense ruby/blue/purple to the rim, this is no wimpy wine, tipping the scales at 15.8% alcohol, but the higher than normal acidity and moderately high tannins give it a decidedly vin de garde style that promises a considerably long life. Unlike the 2004, or 2003 for that matter, it is a wine for patient connoisseurs who are willing to invest 5-6 years. Made from very low yields of 22 hectoliters per hectare, this blockbuster, powerful, muscular style of wine should be at its best between 2012 and 2023. 93-95 points

From Wine Spectator:
The CuvÃ©e de Mon Aieul carries a label from his grandfather's tenure and is made from 100 percent Grenache. It is one of the most exciting wines in ChÃ¢teauneuf today. Initially sourced only from 90-year-old vines in the sandy southern part of ChÃ¢teauneuf (the first vintage for the wine was 1998) the cuvÃ©e now contains grapes sourced from stony and clay portions in the northern area as well. It's very perfumed, with cedar, cherry, currant, tobacco and mineral flavors that course through a racy texture, delivering both fruit and terroir in spades.

2003 Pegau Chateauneufe Reservee 3.0ltr - $450.00

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:58:36 UTC

The magical 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee brings to mind a richer, more alcoholic version of their 1990. The 2003's dense plum/purple color is followed by flamboyant aromas and flavors of roasted meats, spicy herbs, pepper, blackberries, and cedar-tinged kirsch-like fruit. Unctuously-textured, with low acidity, high glycerin as well as alcohol (16+% ), and a monster finish, it displays enormous concentration, silky tannin, and no hard edges. This remarkable, traditionally-styled Chateauneuf du Pape will be drinkable young, yet should age effortlessly for two decades or more. Parker 95-98

2005 Mordoree Chateauneuf Reine de Bois - $99.99

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:55:13 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Oct 07
Since 1996, their Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de la Reine des Bois has been one of the stars of the vintage. The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de la Reine des Bois boasts a dense purple color, a full-bodied, opulent style, moderately high tannin, sensational concentration, and abundant aromas and flavors of spring flowers, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, and spice. It is a meaty, fleshy, tannic effort that brings to mind the 1998. A brilliant wine for the vintage, it should be exceptionally long lived. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. Christophe Delorme and his brother run this estate, which is clearly at the top of its game.... 95 points

A brilliant wine, and again there will be two cuvees, Christophe Delorme's 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de la Reine des Bois has a wonderful, gorgeous black/purple color and a beautifully sweet nose of blackberries, scorched earth, graphite, tobacco leaf, and Provencal herbs and spice. Inky, pure, full-bodied, and tannic with good acidity, this wine is going to require patience. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2025+. Parker 94-96 Sadly, the tiny yields of Mordoree's vineyards only produced 1,250 cases of the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de la Reine des Bois. (By the way, this is a wine in which 40% passes in small barrels, and 60% is aged in tank, and then the two components are blended together prior to bottling.)

This is an estate that was a no-brainer for inclusion in my recent book on the world's greatest wine estates. With 135 acres spread throughout some of the most impressive appellations of the southern Rhone, Christophe Delorme and his brother took over this estate in the early to mid-1990s and have done nothing but produce one exquisite wine after another. Of course, the top cuvees of Chateauneuf du Pape are rare and expensive, but this is a place to find terrific Cotes du Rhones and Liracs as well. Delorme is equally adept at dry whites as well as reds, and turns out some stunning roses both under the Cotes du Rhone and Tavel appellations. Visitors to the area will be surprised to find out that Mordoree is actually in Lirac, not Chateauneuf du Pape.

â€"Robert Parker

2006 Marcoux Chateauneuf Vieilles Vignes - $239.99

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:54:52 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, October 2007
The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (4,000 bottles produced) is a blend of 50% old vine Grenache and a few other grapes aged in tank, and 50% aged in barrel. It achieved 16.2% natural alcohol. The result is a full-bodied wine with fabulous concentration, a saturated dark ruby/plum color, and an ethereal black raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry-scented bouquet with notions of truffles and flowers in the background. It is exceptionally opulent, full-bodied, and deep with silky tannins and low acidity. Give it 2-3 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following two decades. 92-95 points

Stephen Tanzer's Int'l Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 2008
Deep red. Sexy, pinot-like red fruits and minerals on the nose, with a suave floral overtone. Lush raspberry and cherry preserve flavors are enlivened by zesty minerality and framed by silky tannins, picking up more wild garrigue and tobacco qualities on the finish. For all its flavor impact, this is remarkably light, even delicate, with superb balance and precision. 95-97 points

2004 Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin - $74.99

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:46:44 UTC

The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin (an old vine Grenache offering) is concentrated and tightly knit displaying good acidity, firm tannin, rich, full-bodied power, and stunning concentration as well as length. Unlike such vintages as 2003, 2001, 2000, and 1998, the 2004 requires 3-5 years of bottle age; it should keep for 15+. Sabon said its alcohol was essentially equivalent to the 2003 at 15.4%. Parker 91-94

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 06
Dark red. Explosively aromatic and sweet on the nose, dominated by potent red berries and candied rose. Lush and sweet in the mouth, the red berry notes picking up weight and becoming positively liqueur-like. I was reminded of a red Burgundy from the Gros family. Finishes supple and round, with no bite or rough edges. 93-95 points

2004 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape - $72.99

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:42:17 UTC

One of the great successes of the vintage and certainly better than their 2003 is Beaucastel's 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape. Deep ruby/purple in color with loads of licorice, smoked game, black cherry and blackberry fruit, along with incense and truffle, the wine has fabulous richness, high tannin, medium to full body, and beautiful length, richness, and purity. This is a beauty and one of the vintage's finest wines. Give it 4-6 years of bottle age and drink it over the next 25+ years. It has the potential to be one of the longest-lived Chateauneuf du Papes of the vintage. Parker 93+

2005 Chapoutier Hermitage Le Meal - $299.99

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:17:24 UTC

Wine Spectatator, July 31, 2008
($225) A big, broad-shouldered version, with loam, tobacco, currant paste and hoisin sauce notes out in front of the formidable tannin structure. Dark, loamy and muscular through the finish, with a haymaker of black fruit and tarry grip. Best from 2010 through 2030.Â Â 98 points and Collectibles Designation.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Feb 2008
There are 481 cases of the black/purple 2005 Ermitage Le Meal. As always, classic blackberry, asphalt, charcoal, and beef blood notes jump from the glass of this intense wine. Full-bodied, with staggering concentration and a personality not terribly dissimilar from a first-growth Pauillac, but showing no evidence of oak whatsoever (and that is in spite of being aged in 100% new oak casks), this wine needs 10-12 years of bottle age, and should keep for 50-100 years. 96 points

With twenty vintages under his belt, Michel Chapoutier and his impressive winemaking staff go from strength to strength. These are among the world's greatest wines, especially the single vineyard wines, many of which will last 50 or more years.The 2006 reds from Chapoutier display good acidity and freshness. If they lack the powerful tannic structures of the 2005s, and perhaps some of that vintage's density, they are certainly not light wines. It is a vintage of finesse and concentration, but with considerable up-front charm. Again, 1991 is a useful historic reference. They are the perfect foil for those buying 2005s, which will require deferred gratification. The single-vineyard, or as Chapoutier calls them, the â€œSelections Parcellairesâ€ wines, are all aged in small barrels, often 100% new oak, and bottled with neither fining nor filtration. Production is relatively small, with the tiniest cuvee, the Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonnieres usually 200-325 cases, and the rest of the single-vineyard wines averaging around 480-625 cases. The largest is usually the St.-Joseph Les Granits or the Ermitage Le Pavillon, which can be as high as 1,000 or so cases in an abundant vintage. Again, the 2005s all exhibit the vintage's density, tannic structure, and long-term aging potential. At the same time, the 2006s at Chapoutier remind me of 1991, initially an underrated vintage of wines with ideal balance. If they lack the pure power and structure of 2005, they are well-served by their purity and equilibrium. There are four single-vineyard cuvees of Ermitage. Production is small, running from about 275-300 cases of Les Greffieux, 480-500 of Le Meal, 800-1,100 for Le Pavillon, and 200-600 for L'Ermite

2009 Usseglio Chateauneuf Cuvee Mon Aieul - $89.99

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 20:37:35 UTC

The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul 100% Grenache aged in tank (50%), pyramid-shaped, truncated wood cuves (40%) and barrels (10%) will not make anyone forget the 2007. The good news is that there are 1,500 cases in 2009. Already seductive and more evolved than the 2000, 2005 and 2006 were at a similar age, the deep ruby/purple-colored 2009 reveals a sweet bouquet of blueberries, black raspberries, nori (the seaweed wrapper used in sushi restaurants), grilled meats, roasted herbs and spice. Medium to full-bodied with a plump, voluptuous texture, superb purity and silky tannins it should be one of the few Mon Aieuls that will be irresistible upon release. It will evolve for 12-15+ years. Parker 92-94

2005 Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape VV 1.5ltr - $275.00

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 14:42:25 UTC

Wine Spectator, October 2007
Has gorgeous mouthfeel, with intense, racy layers of boysenberry, raspberry ganache and fig that pump along velvety tannins while notes of Turkish coffee, mocha, fruitcake and chocolate fill in the background. The superlong finish flaunts power and depth, but stays pure and refined. Drink now through 2032. 97 points and Collectibles Designation.

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 07
Inky purple. Intense blackberry and raspberry preserve aromas show great depth and ripeness -no surprise, as Sabon told me that components of this are over 17.4% alcohol. Lush, creamy and almost liqueur-like in sweetness, but with good acid lift to the ripe boysenberry and blackberry flavors. Tannins sneak in on the back but are overwhelmed by the sheer weight of fruit. Stains the palate with dark fruit flavors. This was one of the highlights of my trip. 94-97 points

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Feb 2007
Possibly the wine of the vintage, the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, which is up around 16% natural alcohol, actually as remarkable levels of acidity and a low pH for Chateauneuf du Pape. Dense, full-bodied, with an inky/purple color, extremely backward, but with layer upon layer of fruit and richness, this wine has enormous concentration, texture, and body as well as amazing precision and freshness. This is certainly a Chateauneuf du Pape meant for long-term aging and probably best put away for 5-8 years and drunk over the following 20-25 years. This possibly could be a legendary wine in the making. 94-96 points

2005 Guigal Cote Rotie Chateau d' Ampuis - $129.99

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 14:36:23 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Oct. 2006
The fabulous 2005 Cote Rotie Chateau d'Ampuis is a resounding success. This is the first vintage where Guigal's newest acquisition, the Syrah from the Viria Vineyard (essentially a fourth single vineyard), is included in the blend. Dark ruby/purple to the rim, it boasts an extraordinary bouquet of ground pepper, creme de cassis, blackberries, coffee, bacon fat, and herbs. With outstanding concentration, huge tannin, and massive intensity as well as extract, it needs 7-8 years of cellaring, and should keep for 30-35 years. Â Â 96-98 points

2009 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape - $79.99

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 20:14:42 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Oct 2010
The 2009 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape (30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise and the balance other permitted varietals) exhibits an opaque purple color as well as sweet aromas of camphor, truffles, black cherries, black currants, licorice, pepper and forest floor. The wine is full-bodied, rich, intense and powerful. Moreover, there is a lot more of the 2009 than there is of the 2008 (after the strict selection, only 50% of the normal production was achieved). Because of the significant tannins, the 2009 requires 3-5 years of bottle age and should evolve for 25-30 years. 92-95 points

2007 Brunel Chateauneuf Les Cailloux 1.5ltr - $79.99

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 22:11:27 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Oct 09
Two brilliant successes are Brunel's cuvees of 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape. The 2007 Les Cailloux Tradition (a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, 12% Syrah, and 3% other authorized varieties) comes from 60-year-old vines and is aged completely in tank except for the Mourvedre and Syrah components, which are kept in small barrels. Explosively fruity, this dense plum/purple-colored wine displays grilled meat notes intermixed with Provencal herbs, spice box, black cherry and black currant, in addition to having a lush, opulent texture. The finish goes on and on, and the wine is beautifully pure. It can be drunk now or cellared for 12 or more years. 93 points

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 2010
($50) Bright ruby. Highly floral bouquet of red and dark berry preserves, potpourri, smoky minerals and white pepper. Tangy red berry flavors give way to deeper cherry and blackberry in the middle palate, with exotic floral pastille and Asian spice qualities adding complexity. Very suave wine with a seamless, silky texture and strong finishing sweetness, not to mention impressive clarity. 93 points

Wine Spectator, November 2009
This gushes with blueberry, fig and black cherry fruit, all seamlessly woven with silky, fine-grained tannins. The stylish finish lets spice and incense notes check in, while buried minerality adds length. Drink now through 2019. 4,000 cases made. 92 points

2008 Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes - $89.99

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 22:10:43 UTC
The 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is a 1,000-case blend of 70% old vine Grenache (60- to 100-year-old vines) and 30% Mourvedre (a much higher percentage than normal). One of the top half-dozen Chateauneuf du Papes of the vintage, it boasts a dark plum/ruby/purple color, full body, light to moderate tannin and lots of white chocolate, licorice, black currant, kirsch, incense and jus de viande characteristics. This beauty can be drunk now or cellared for a decade. It is a remarkable achievement for a vintage such as 2008. WA 92

2009 Charvin Chateauneuf du Pape - $69.99

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:52:48 UTC

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate October 2011
The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape (which tips the scales around 15% natural alcohol) is a great example of traditional Chateauneuf du Pape winemaking. A dense dark ruby color is followed by a sexy nose of raspberries, ground pepper, spice box, damp earth, kirsch and dark currants. Full-bodied, complex, elegant and already irresistible as the tannins have completely melted away, it can be drunk now and over the next 15+ years. Â 95 points

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, March/April 2011
Bright ruby. Seductively perfumed, suggesting floral-inflected aromas of cherry, red berries and Asian spices, along with a strong mineral quality. Velvety and bright on entry, then ripe and sweet in the mid-palate, with impressive energy to its raspberry and cherry compote flavors. Lively on the bright, extremely long finish, which features lingering floral and mineral nuances. Â 93-95 points

2009 Cristia Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes - $79.99

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 17:38:08 UTC
A sensational effort, the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (100% Grenache from 70- to 80-year-old vines planted in pure sand) was aged in 2- to 3-year-old barrels. Incredible aromas of roasted Provencal herbs, licorice, truffles, kirsch and black raspberries jump from the glass of this dark ruby/purple-hued wine. Full-bodied and voluptuous as well as extremely elegant and poised, the sweetness of the tannin and the wine's unctuosity and viscosity are all remarkable. This is a blockbuster, old vine Grenache to drink over the next 15+ years. WA - 95

1999 Domaine de la Solitude ChÃ¢teauneuf-du-Pape CuvÃ©e Barberini - $89.99

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 17:58:16 UTC
Wine Spectator, Nov 2002
Wonderful. Dark in color, rich in texture, with ripe fruit and sweet tannins, complemented by nice doses of oak. This balanced beauty offers a smooth, fresh finish, packed with cassis, plum and black currant flavors. Â 92 points

2004 Chave Hermitage Rouge - $189.99

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 17:53:34 UTC
Tasting through the separate barrels of the 2004 Hermitage was, as usual, a lesson in French terroir. This elegant vintage also revealed surprising ripeness, power, and richness because of the severe crop-thinning as well as the strict triage in the cellar. Displaying a personality similar to the 1999, but even richer, it may turn out to be the finest Northern Rhone I tasted. A brilliant wine boasting superb ripeness, loads of licorice-infused creme de cassis, and hints of rocks as well as flowers, this powerful, rich beauty should be cellared for 5-6 years, and drunk over the following two decades. Parker 93-95

2009 Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape - $49.99

Tue, 03 May 2011 14:35:50 UTC
A sleeper of the vintage, the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape is much less expensive than the other cuvees and represents a noteworthy buy. Classic kirsch liqueur, roasted Provencal herb and sandy, loamy soil characteristics are found in this dense, opulent, voluptuously textured wine that is on a much faster evolutionary track than the 2010. It should drink well for a decade.Â WA 93

If a prize were given to the Rhone Valley estate that had improved the most in the shortest period of time, it would undoubtedly go to that of Pascal and Vincent Maurel, who took over Clos Saint-Jean after their father passed away in 2002. Since then, they have made a succession of world-class wines that are out of this world. One of the largest estates in Chateauneuf du Pape, Clos Saint-Jean has an amazing number of old vine parcels in its 112+ acres (significant holdings in La Crau, in the eastern part of the appellation). No doubt the hiring of renowned oenologist Philippe Cambie has also increased the quality of these offerings. The 2010 Clos Saint-Jean Chateauneuf du Papes are phenomenal wines. The Maurel brothers believe they are as profound as the 2007s, and it is hard to disagree. Production is down considerably because of the loss of 25-30% of the Grenache crop due to poor flowering, but the levels of concentration, freshness and focus of these wines are remarkable. Moreover, the 2009s from bottle performed at the upper end of the ranges I had given them last year â€" always a sign of a terrific winery dedicated to high quality.

2005 Gerin Cote Rotie Le Seigneur - $56.99

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 12:05:15 UTC
The 2005 Cote Rotie Champin Le Seigneur possesses the vintage's rather tannic, strongly structured, more austere side, even for this wine, which is meant to be Gerin's most charming and up-front Cote Rotie. The wine is well-made, pure, with plenty of black cherry and herb-infused fruit, but in the finish, the tannins kick in. Give it several years of bottle age and drink it over the following decade

2003 Sabon Secret de Sabon - $219.00

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 00:04:56 UTC
The 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Le Secret des Sabon is extremely powerful and full-bodied with that note of truffle oil, burning embers, and roasted meats along with melted licorice, creme de cassis, blackberry and cherry. Dense, full-bodied, and expansive, with high glycerin and what must be at least 16+% alcohol, this is a formidable Chateauneuf du Pape that should drink well for 15+ years. Parker 96 points

2007 Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee 1.5 ltr - $175.00

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:06:37 UTC

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 2010
($85-$100) Opaque ruby. The highly perfumed nose offers an exotic array of red and dark berries, spicecake and potpourri, with hints of smoky herbs and olive adding complexity. Juicy and fresh for a wine that's over 15% alcohol, offering sweet raspberry and cherry flavors framed by silky tannins. Very suave and open-knit today, with excellent finishing clarity and smoky persistence. 94 points

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, October 2009
The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee (of which I was lucky to find a magnum on a Paris bistro's wine list a week after my tasting at the estate) is a brilliant effort that ranks alongside the colossal 2003 Cuvee Reservee. A blend of approximately 85% Grenache, 8-9% Syrah, and the rest Mourvedre and other varietals from 50-100+ year old vines aged in foudre, it exhibits a dense plum/purple color along with a big, sweet bouquet of beef blood, grilled herbs, barbecue smoke, lavender, sweet cassis and kirsch and a hint of Asian soy. The wine possesses a fabulous texture, a full-bodied mouthfeel and a seamless integration of tannin, acidity and alcohol. Certainly the alcohol level is pushing 16% in this wine. With extraordinary texture and unctuosity, this remarkable effort should drink well for 20+ years yet be very appealing in its youth given the glycerin, velvety texture, and remarkable complexity. 95 points

2007 Marcoux Chateauneuf du Pape VV - $225.00

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:46:02 UTC
The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is still an infant in terms of development. Composed of 98% Grenache from 100- to 110-year-old vines, and made from incredibly tiny yields, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color followed by a sweet kiss of kirsch liqueur, incense, camphor, truffles, and lavender. The wine hits the palate with sensational richness, a full-bodied, multilayered texture, awesome purity, and remarkable freshness as well as vibrancy. The tannins are velvety, the acids provide uplift and delineation to the wine's enormous richness and depth, and the finish lasts nearly a minute. This 2007 is still very young and unevolved, so 2-4 years of cellaring is recommended. It should age for 25 or more years. Parker 98

2003 Tardieu Laurent Cotes du Phone Guy Louis - $25.99

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:06:12 UTC
2003 Tardieu Laurent Cotes du Phone Guy Louis - $25.99