1 | Wine | Page 316

"The impression here is elegant overall, but there's a firm backbone of acidity that's finely meshed with the delicate range of flavors, including white raspberry, spiced plum, biscuit, pink grapefruit zest and a base note of smoky minerality."

"Inky purple. Sexy aromas of candied dark berries, violet and Moroccan spices, with a bright mineral overtone. Lively and precise on the palate, which offers sweet dark berry flavors and gently chewy texture. Shows very good intensity on the finish, which clings with lingering minerality and spiciness. These vines are mostly in Mauves, according to Philippe Guigal."

"Aromas and flavors reminiscent of sun-ripened cherries, blackberries and juicy plums. Rose, cocoa, truffle and cigar-box terroir notes mingle with the vibrant fruit expression, along with toffee, vanilla and warm spice nuances from barrel aging. Bright acidity lifts the flavors, while supple tannins add structure and plush mouthfeel through the lingering finish. Perfect with roasted pork, duck, lamb and beef, especially if they are rubbed with sweet spices or juniper berries."

"Their finest effort since 1982, Petit Village has turned out a beautifully generous, succulent, fleshy 2009 with loads of ripe plum, black currant, black cherry, mocha and subtle earthy undertones. Round, flamboyant, dense and rich, with low acidity, outstanding concentration and purity, and a long finish, this outstanding wine should drink well for up to 15 or more years."
-Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate - 91 pts

"This darker, toastier style delivers plush cocoa and plum sauce aromas and flavors to lead the way, liberally laced with notes of pain d'épices, fig and blackberry confiture. Fleshy edges build through the finish, with impressive grip. A property steadily on the rise."

"Clear golden green reflections. Pronounced vinous nose recalling dried fruits and licorice. Nice and full, accentuated by a ripe lemonlike crispness."

"The Catena Alta Chardonnay 2010 presents an intenese greenish-yellow color. The nose offers ripe white fruit aromas such as pears and peaches that are interwoven with delicate citrus and floral notes, such as Jasmine. The palate shows rich and concentrated ripe pear, apple and apricot flavors with a light note of minerality. The wine finishes long and complex with crisp, mineral acidity."

"Vibrant and expressive with dominant floral notes and hints of bright fruit flavors – including peach, tropical fruits and lychee – this wine is soft and luscious. Just a hint of fine effervescence tickles the palate and balances the sweetness."