1 | Wine | Rhone, 2010 | Page 2

"The reasonably priced 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape is a slightly downsized version of the Secrets de Pignan. There is more Syrah in the blend and perhaps that is the reason for its spectrum of darker fruits than the Pignan. There is a lot to like here with copious floral notes intermixed with black currant and black cherry fruit as well as hints of sandy soils and balsam wood. Full, rich and very natural tasting, this beauty can be drunk now and over the next decade."

"Black currant, spring flower, licorice and crushed rock aromas jump from the glass of this dense ruby/purple-colored, full-bodied, beautifully pure, textured and dense Lirac. It should drink well for at least a decade."-Robert Parker

"Rich, velvety spices and fruit on the nose. Forceful and full mouth but with a crisp freshness. Pair with roasted game or spicy Indian or Thai dishes."

"Dark purple. Ripe cherry and dark berry aromas are complemented and lifted by peppery spice and floral notes. Black and blue fruits on the palate, which shows a supple, seamless texture and very good energy. Finishes sweet and long, with resonating spiciness and harmonious tannins."

"Black cherry, fig, roast beef, bouquet garni, licorice and soil notes. Deep, medium to full-bodied, rich and well-textured, it should drink well for 4-5 years." -Robert Parker

"The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape (70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre) is an opaque purple-colored beauty revealing lots of creme de cassis, black raspberry, licorice and camphor notes. Sexy and full-throttle as well as supple and more evolved than many 2010 Chateauneufs, it can be enjoyed now and over the next 10-12 years." -Robert Parker

"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." -Robert Parker