2008 CNDP Cuvee Prestige Mixed Cases (1x 2004-2006 CDP-CP)

Ruby-red. Flamboyant aromas of blackberry, cherry-cola and dark chocolate, enlivened by minerals. Sweet and smoky, with chewy texture and good depth to its dark berry, violet pastille and cola flavors. This boasts serious depth and power for the year and leaves notes of candied flowers and peppery spice behind.

A real star, the 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige is another sleeper of the vintage. This powerful, rich blend of 60% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 15% Terret Noir, Cinsault, Counoise, Vaccarese and Muscardin from 90+ year old vines is one of the richest wines of the vintage. Medium to full-bodied with a dark plum/purple color, it offers up aromas of grilled steak, beef blood, black currants, sweet cherries, charcoal, herbs and smoke. Almost an anomaly in this Chateauneuf du Pape vintage, it should drink well for a decade. Bravo! Domaine Roger Sabon has long been a reference point for classic Chateauneuf du Pape, and they have added a slight twist to their traditionally made cuvees with the Secret des Sabon, made from an ancient field blend (although over 90% is clearly Grenache), and aged in small barrels and demi-muids. A little new oak is used with the Cuvee Prestige, but these are primarily classic, old style Chateauneuf du Papes. There are many members of the Sabon family in this appellation and all of them have the Midas touch when it comes to making wine. Established in 1921, this estate has over 42 acres scattered among 15 separate parcels in Chateauneuf du Pape. As I reported last year, their 2008s are among the strongest wines of the vintage. Jean-Jacques Sabon and his son-in-law, Didier Negron (the oenologist here since 2001), hit pay dirt in 2009, a vintage that is not far off the pace of their spectacular 2007s. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC: tel. (704) 358-1565

Closed and tight on the nose, ripe red fruits and smooth-paste tannins. Slightly bitter on the finish, and slightly underwhelming concentration too. (RH)