1 | Wine | Red Rhone Blend, $20 to $50, 2009

"A sexy, seductive, up-front effort revealing loads of berry fruit along with hints of Provencal herbs, licorice and smoked meats. Evolved, ripe, round, full-bodied and loaded, it can be drunk now or cellared for a decade." 90-92 pts, reviewed by Robert Parker.

"There is not a hard edge to be found in this silky Chateauneuf. ...The sexy, full-bodied, dense garnet-colored 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape reveals abundant aromas of kirsch, plums, figs and black fruits, a lavish texture, an opulent mouthfeel and a long finish."

"It presents a deep garnet-purple color and notes of blackberry and blueberry preserves with some raisins, violets, peach blossoms and baking spices. Rich, ripe, and nicely balanced, it’s full bodied with firm grainy tannins, crisp acid and a long finish."

"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."

"Sexy, high-pitched aromas of raspberry preserves, blackberry, minerals and pungent flowers. Concentrated but not at all heavy; gently sweet red and dark berry flavors show a seamless quality and are lifted by juicy acidity. Open-knit and suave, finishing with silky tannins and good clarity."

"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."

"The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Tradition (80% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre and the rest Syrah, Cinsault and Counoise) is a beauty. The Tradition has slightly more Mourvedre in the final blend than the Cuvee Girard. Both are dark ruby/purple-colored, full-bodied wines displaying lots of garrigue, black cherry, black currant and earthy flavors, good richness, sweet tannins and abundant glycerin as well as opulence." Reviewed by Robert Parker.

"A lush, flattering style, offering crushed plum, blueberry and raspberry fruit woven nicely with melted licorice snap and smoky tea notes, followed by a creamy finish."