The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Haute Pierre (65% tank-aged Grenache and 35% barrel-aged Syrah) boasts a dense ruby/purple color along with sweet notes of roasted meats, new saddle leather, espresso, cassis and black cherry jam. This classic, full-throttle Chateauneuf du Pape can be enjoyed over the next 15+ years. As I noted last year, there has been tremendous progress and a definitive amelioration of quality with respect to the Chateauneuf du Papes being produced by Delas. Importer: Maison Marques et Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 286-2000

The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Haute Pierre (65% tank-aged Grenache and 35% barrel-aged Syrah) boasts a dense ruby/purple color along with sweet notes of roasted meats, new saddle leather, espresso, cassis and black cherry jam. This classic, full-throttle Chateauneuf du Pape can be enjoyed over the next 15+ years. As I noted last year, there has been tremendous progress and a definitive amelioration of quality with respect to the Chateauneuf du Papes being produced by Delas.Importer: Maison Marques et Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 286-2000

Racy and fresh, with a piercing, stony edge cutting through the red currant, plum and cherry notes, all laced with hints of garrigue and tobacco on the finish. Still taut, so cellar a touch. Best from 2013 through 2020. 650 cases imported. -JM