2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Secrete

A blend of roughly 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah that was brought up in 60% new barrels, the sensational 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape la Reserve Secrete is a big, concentrated bruiser whose inky purple color is followed by tons of jammy blackberries, hints of cassis, spice and violets aromas and flavors. Its oak elevage has been completely absorbed by its wealth of fruit, and this full-bodied Chateauneuf du Pape has a stacked mid-palate, building tannin and a great finish. It's just now starting to be drinkable, yet it still needs short term cellaring and will drink well for two decades or more.

After the initial blast of vanilla and coffee in the nose, the wine moves to licorice, jammy berries, earth, herbs and spice. Silky, elegant and supple on the showy palate, this is an outstanding, modern styled Chateauneuf du Pape . 95 Points

Inky ruby. Displays sexy, oak-spiced dark berry and cherry aromas, along with notes of vanilla and violet. Impressively lush and sappy in the mouth, with appealing sweetness to its black raspberry and candied plum flavors. As rich as this may be, it shows bright, tangy freshness and energy. Finishes very long, broad and sweet, with intense spiciness and lingering florality.