2010 Chateauneuf du Pape

The reasonably priced 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape is a slightly downsized version of the Secrets de Pignan. There is more Syrah in the blend and perhaps that is the reason for its spectrum of darker fruits than the Pignan. There is a lot to like here with copious floral notes intermixed with black currant and black cherry fruit as well as hints of sandy soils and balsam wood. Full, rich and very natural tasting, this beauty can be drunk now and over the next decade. During my tasting trip to Chateauneuf du Pape I was only presented with La Bastide Saint-Dominique’s 2011s and the 2010 Les Hesperides, but I was able to acquire some bottles of the other 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape cuvees elsewhere. The estate’s wines were completely sold out and even the owners had no 2010 stock remaining. With 25 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape as well as larger acreage in the Cotes du Rhone, this estate has been on top of its game for some time thanks to the qualitative improvements and commitments of the Bonnet family. Nearly all of their vineyards are in the northeastern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape, particularly in the areas known as Pignan (with sandy, sometimes clay soils) and the small boulder-covered Chapouin region. The 2011s are very strong efforts. Importers: Simon N Cellars, Charlottesville, VA; tel. (434) 977-4476; Vigneron Imports, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 530-1616; Oslo Enterprise LLC, Takoma Park, MD; tel. (301) 326-2056

A blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre, and 5% Cinsault that is aged 12 months in tank, the 2010 La Bastide Saint-Dominique Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a great, traditional cuvee that offers up notions of plum, blackberry, melted licorice, singed leather, and hints of wild flowers to go with a rich, decadently styled 2010 that has a clean, elegant texture, sweet fruit, and polished tannin. It is hard to resist now, yet should have no problem drinking well for 8-10 years.

Dark violet color. Deeply pitched aromas of black and blue fruits, with a smoky overtone. Full, fleshy and seamless on the palate, displaying ripe blackberry and boysenberry flavors and a hint of licorice. In a rich style, with good finishing power and no rough edges.