2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Vieilles Vignes

A blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre, and 5% Cinsault from 70- to 105-year-old vines, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Vieilles Vignes was aged in both foudre and small oak. A beautiful effort, it exhibits a saturated dark ruby/purple hue along with notes of blueberries, black raspberries, black currants, licorice, graphite, and forest floor. Full-bodied, layered, and rich with good acids as well as sweet, velvety tannins, this cuvee is filled with substance and elegance. Drink it over the next 12-15 years. A consistently excellent estate, Luc Perrin established this domaine in 1969. Normally two Chateauneuf du Pape cuvees are produced, but in the challenging 2008 vintage, only the traditional wine is offered. Importer: T. Edward Wines, New York, NY; tel. (212) 233-1504

Bright ruby. Deep, alluring nose projects a sexy bouquet of raspberry, blueberry, Asian spices and dried flowers. Powerful but focused, with sweet red and dark berry flavors, melting tannins and a late kick of smoky minerals. Nicely balances richness against energy, finishing with excellent clarity and clinging sweetness.

Grenache Noir 70%, Syrah 14%, Mourvèdre 14%, Counoise 1%, Vaccarèse 1%. Aged half in barrique and half in foudre. Dark polished crimson. Very sweet black cherries on the nose and then real refreshment on the palate. Very polished indeed – not at all rustic! The (very natural-tasting) acidity is pretty marked. (JR)