1 | Wine | France, Rhone Misc, 2009

"Complex, heady scents of dark berry liqueur, Asian spices, potpourri and minerals. Stains the palate with intense blackberry and cherry flavors accented by white pepper and allspice. Finishes sappy and incisive, with outstanding clarity and persistence."

"Domaine de la Mordoree remains the reference point for how good Lirac can be. It is an appellation with tremendous potential, and a number of Chateauneuf du Pape estates are buying up vineyards in the appellation. The 2009 Lirac Cuvee de la Reine des Bois is another star from Christophe Delorme. Loads of kirsch, black currant and crushed rock notes along with a hint of spring flowers are all present in this dense purple, medium to full-bodied, delicious wine, which should drink nicely for 7-8 years."

"A rich, full-bodied Gigondas. ...with notes of crushed rock, boysenberry, black raspberry, camphor, and a hint of pen ink. The wine displays terrific fruit on the attack, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel with good acid, superb purity, texture, and length. This deep ruby/purple-colored wine should drink well for at least 10-15 years." 91-93 pts, reviewed by Robert Parker.

"As for the negociant northern Rhone selections, the dense purple-hued 2009 Cote Rotie reveals lots of black olive, bacon fat, black raspberry and blackberry fruit notes intertwined with hints of charcoal and underbrush." Reviewed by Robert Parker.

"Complex, heady scents of dark berry liqueur, Asian spices, potpourri and minerals. Stains the palate with intense blackberry and cherry flavors accented by white pepper and allspice. Finishes sappy and incisive, with outstanding clarity and persistence."

"The dark plum/ruby/garnet-hued 2009 Vacqueyras exhibits the vintage’s sexy, soft tannins, high glycerin, rich fruit and velvety personality. With an evolved nose of cedar, loamy soil, forest floor and red and black fruit notes, this deep, rich, full-bodied, charming effort can be drunk over the next 5-6 years."