NV NV Domaine François Xavier Vins Châteauneuf-du-Pape la Reserve VII IX X

A super rich and complex style with abundant red, blue and purple fruit aromas framed in fresh herbs, gently spicy and woody notes. The palate has intensity and focus, delivers a ripe, rich and succulent impression and holds long. Delicious Châteauneuf. Drink or hold.

While I reviewed this NV Châteauneuf du Pape La Reserve VII IX X (a blend from the 2007, 2009 and 2010 vintages) last year, I was able to taste it again this go around, and it still blew me away. Fabulously full-bodied and decadent, with loads of lavender, incense, black raspberry and cured-meat nuances, it’s still youthful and vibrant, with notable freshness and purity. Enjoy this brilliant wine through 2028.

A non-vintage blend from three serious vintagea - 2010 (38%), 2011 (26%) and 2012 (36%) - the NV Châteauneuf du Pape La Reserve X XI XII is an interesting blend of mostly old vine Grenache, with the balance Mourvèdre, Counoise, Terret and Muscardin. Aged all in barrel (20% new) it offers sensational notes of roasted Provençal herbs, black currants, truffle, cured meats and licorice. Big, mouth filling, full-bodied and gorgeously textured, it’s a rock star effort that should be ready to go right on release. However, given its mid-palate depth and concentration, it will age gracefully. If you get a chance, don’t miss this blockbuster styled Chateauneuf!