2011 Chateauneuf du Pape La Gardine

Vivid ruby. Raspberry, cassis, woodsmoke and a peppery note on the nose. Supple and gently sweet, offering somewhat loose-knit red fruit flavors and a hint of licorice. Finishes with smooth tannins and decent length, leaving a smoky note behind.

Looking at the reds, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Tradition offers quality aromas and flavors of sweet black raspberry, bouquet garni, underbrush and hints of pepper to go with a medium-bodied, sweetly fruited and nicely concentrated profile on the palate. Enjoy this traditional, workhorse-styled effort over the coming 7-8 years. Drink now-2021.. Importer: Shaw-Ross, Miramar, FL; tel. (954) 430-5036

30% Grenache Blanc, 20% Clairette, 40% Roussanne, 10% Bourboulenc. Light, fresh and a little sweet. Attractive and easy. Fresh flowers and a green streak. Not very long. (JR)