2009 Chateauneuf du Pape

Another wine that shows the vintage characteristics beautifully, the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape gives up loads of kirsch, sweet blackberries, garrigue and peppery herbs in its full-bodied, rich, concentrated and structured personality. There’s ample tannin here, so give it another year or two in the cellar. I’m not sure if this estate produces one of the longest-lived Chateauneuf du Papes out there, or if it just seems that way due to the fact that they have such a fantastic library of old wines and I’m able to taste more of them! Nevertheless, Clos du Mont Olivet, which is now run by Thierry Sabon, is a brilliant estate that fashions traditional, age-worthy Chateauneuf du Papes that have incredibly broad drink windows. Various American importers including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; David Hinkle, North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 848-8910; Dionysus Imports, Manassas, VA; tel. (703) 392-7073; Ideal Wines and Spirits, Medford, MA; tel. (617) 395-3300; The Wine Company, St. Paul, MN; tel. (651) 487-1212; and Import Wines, Middleton, WI; tel. (608) 833-8622

Deep red. Complex, spice-accented bouquet of cherry, dark berry and dried flowers, with a hint of anise emerging with air. Deeply pitched blackberry and bitter cherry flavors are lifted by tangy acidity and show a suave floral nuance. Finishes juicy and long, with very good clarity and lingering spiciness.

Ruby-red. Musky black raspberry and Indian spices on the nose, with complicating notes of lavender, violet and licorice. Compellingly sweet and velvety on entry, then vibrant and delineated in the mid-palate, with an appealing floral quality complementing the flavors of crushed red berries and cherry. Pungent minerality adds energy to a long, spicy finish.