2010 Chateauneuf du Pape

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. With impressive holdings in the northern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape as well as an ever expanding, high quality negociant business, brothers Christophe and Sebastian Jaume have taken this estate, established in 1826, to new heights. The estate wines, which are sold under the Domaine Grand Veneur label, are classic, quasi-modern-styled Chateauneuf du Papes that represent brilliant examples of their impeccable viticulture and winemaking. Interestingly, all three cuvees of Chateauneuf du Pape were produced in 2011. That decision appears to be justified by the quality of what I tasted as well as their potential for extended maturity beyond a decade. As for the 2010s, the Alain Jaume offerings and the Domaine Grand Veneur Cotes du Rhone cuvees were all reviewed in my report on the wines of Kysela Pere et Fils in Issue #201. The 2010 Domaine Grand Veneur estate wines, especially the Chateauneuf du Papes, are brilliant. Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel. (540) 722-9228

Showing beautifully, the 2010 Domaine Grand Veneur Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre that was aged in a combination of vat and barrel. Gorgeously pure and polished, with aromas of black raspberry, sweet spice, licorice, and hints of flowers all emerging from the glass, this medium to full-bodied, elegant, and perfectly balanced red has layers of texture, notable freshness, and enough structure to allow it to evolve gracefully for 10-15 years. It’s a serious Châteauneuf-du-Pape that won’t hit prime time drinking until 5-6 years after the vintage.

(70% grenache, 20% syrah and 10% mourvedre): Youthful purple. Deep, rich nose combines dark fruits, licorice, smoke and a floral element. Lush, ripe and deep, but with surprising energy to its blackberry and cherry flavors. Quite powerful for an entry-level wine. Finishes smooth and long, with a persistent dark berry preserve quality.