Southern Rhone Wine Tasting at Café Maxx

“Like a bottle of Chateauneuf du Pape, I’m fine like wine when I start to rap”
Body Movin’ by Beastie Boys

Southern Rhone Wine Tasting at Café Maxx
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
6:30pm

The last few vintages have been of epic proportions throughout the Southern Rhone Valley. Let’s start with the 2007 vintage- this could very well be one of the greatest vintages of all time for the Rhone Valley. If you follow the venerable Robert Parker Jr. you have heard that it is the best vintage he has ever tasted in his 30+ years of traveling to this region.  

Although the 2008 vintage is getting very little attention from collectors, it is a very nice vintage to drink while you are waiting for the 2007’s to mature in your cellar.  Also many of the top producers did not make their most prestigious bottling in 2008, so all these grapes went into their other cuvees.  At a cheaper price than 2007 the 2008 vintage is an excellent value.  

Then, there is the epic 2009 vintage.  This vintage was amazing all over France and they perfectly ripe fruit also prevailed in the Southern Rhone with wines that are approachable now but have the potential to age in your cellar as well.

Finally the newly released 2010 which also looks like another incredible vintage but much more classic in style so not quite as showy as 2009 but I think these wines like the entry level cuvees have been every bit as good as the 2009.

This is the best value of any event that we do anywhere.  We are pouring 8 wines and Chef Oliver Saucy will be sending out a few small courses to accompany the tasting wines.  The fee for this tasting is $35 + tax, for reservations call 954-782-0606.

 

Tasting Line-up:

2010 Joncier Lirac Rose
Price: $22.25       Sale $19.58          Case $227

The feisty, vivacious Marine Roussel took her time finding her place in the family domaine. Her father, Pierre, was an agronomist and started Domaine du Joncier in 1964. However, as a young graphic artist, Marine was seeking adventure beyond her small, sleepy town in the Southern Rhône. After living in both Marseilles and Paris, Marine eventually felt a strong pull to return home. She joined the domaine in 1989, and has since taken on her new vocation with the zeal that only a true artist could possess. Marine aims to achieve balance, purity, and minerality in her wines—a noble, if not challenging, goal given the sunbaked terroirs she farms. On the right bank of the Southern Rhône, Lirac shares many similarities to both neighboring crus Tavel and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Her terraced vineyards of alluvial soil and galets roulés mirror Châteauneuf’s terraces right across the river. Maximum sun exposure and ripeness like that of Tavel must be tempered, and that is where both nature and Marine’s artistry comes into play.

Her terraces benefit from the persistent mistral, whose regular gusts purify the vines of parasites and mildew throughout the entire year. The galets roulés in the soil provide good drainage and insulation, preventing the roots from getting too hot or too cold at any given time. In addition, Marine has achieved organic certification in her vineyards and is now seeking biodynamic certification. Her soils are alive with microbiotic activity, lending a hand in both the long-term sustainability of her land and in the mineral expression of her wines. Since the vines naturally achieve such low yields, Marine seeks a gentle tannin extraction, too, an important step that provides balance to the final blends. She makes two impressive Lirac Rouges, the first a classic blend with a majority percentage of Grenache, and Cuvée Les Muses, an inky blend made predominately with Mourvèdre.

 

2011 Domaine Joncier L’O de Joncier
Price: $14.75       Sale $12.98          Case $151

100% biodynamic tank raised Grenache.

2009 Domaine Joncier Lirac Rouge
Price: $25.50       Sale $22.44          Case $260

2009 Terre d’Avignon Coted Du Rhone
Price: $15                             Sale $13.20          Case $153

The growing success we have enjoyed over the last three vintages is proof enough that the KL Côtes du Rhône fits both the taste profile and quality standards that our customers have come to expect. Since 1929, this winery has been bringing local vignerons together from the outlying areas of Avignon in the Southern Rhône to produce delicious wines that epitomize the region’s complex terroirs. Kermit works closely with winemaker Jean-François Pasturel to develop the blend. Pasturel is thrilled to be able to have the chance to produce a Côtes du Rhône he does not have to filter to death. It is his tête de cuvée, his pride and joy. 2009 CDR- 47% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 11% Cinsault, 7% Carignan Gigondas fruit. Very rich, spicy, and garrigue with good structure.

2009 Kermit Lynch Cypress Cuvee Cotes Du Rhone
Price: $16.50       Sale $14.52          Case $169

Louis Barruol is an indefatigable force in the Rhône. He is the fourteenth generation in his family to be making wine in this sixteenth-century domaine in Gigondas. On what was once the site of a Roman villa, Louis’ cellars show spectacular remains of old, Roman vinification vats carved into the limestone. Together, he and Kermit blend our Cypress Cuvée (Rouge) and Sunflower Cuvée (Blanc) from his own vineyards. Louis selects the best parcels he can find, and then Kermit shows up and either has a cuvée bottled unfiltered, or he blends to find the assemblage that satisfies his esthetic criteria. This Vintage is 80% Syrah and 20% Grenache from vineyards mainly around Vinsobre.

2010 Maxime Francois Laurent “Pourpre” Cotes Du Rhone
Price: $35                             Sale $30.80          Case $357

Domaine Gramenon is the authentic embodiment of the philosophies that the Laurents espouse. They do not merely champion organic farming, but they incorporate the concept of sustainability into their daily lives by growing their own food and raising their own animals. Though Michèle and Maxime continue to test the confines of the appellation, the cellars are unsurprisingly old-fashioned. The Laurents use gravity-fed cuves and age their wines in oak demi-muids and foudres. That they take such gutsy risks as bottling old-vine fruit with so little sulfur, without fining or filtration, only demonstrates the lengths they will go to in order to highlight the freshness, purity, and intoxicating aromas of their small, rare production.

2010 Domaine Gramenon “L’Elementaire” Cotes du Rhone
Price: $28.75       Sale 25.30                            Case $294

The seemingly reserved façade of Michèle Aubèry-Laurent melts away quickly when she speaks about her wines. As a former nurse (who often favored natural remedies), she has come to treat her vines with the same care, conviction, and passion as she had for her former patients. She and her husband, Philippe, bottled their first vintage at Domaine Gramenon in 1990, in the northern stretches of the Southern Rhône, in the Côtes-du-Rhône Villages appellation of Vinsobres, between Grignan and Nyons. Philippe was a talented vigneron—both creative and edgy—and he loved to push the envelope of the regulations imposed by the I.N.A.O. In 1999, in an unexpected twist of fate, he was killed in a tragic accident. Michèle was suddenly left on her own with their three children, vineyards, and a winery to deal with. Crushed but undaunted, Michèle stepped to the forefront, boldly picking up where Philippe left off. Over the years, Michèle has discovered her own creative voice in her new vocation; in so doing she has catapulted Domaine Gramenon into cult wine status.  Today, she works twenty-six hectares with her talented son, Maxime François (a rising star in his own right), farming both young and very old vines alike. They employ organic and biodynamic practices in the vineyards, with a strong non-interventionist stance in the cellars. Maxime François has begun flexing his own creative muscle, bottling two cuvées at the domaine under his own name.

Domaine Gramenon is the authentic embodiment of the philosophies that the Laurents espouse. They do not merely champion organic farming, but they incorporate the concept of sustainability into their daily lives by growing their own food and raising their own animals. Though Michèle and Maxime continue to test the confines of the appellation, the cellars are unsurprisingly old-fashioned. The Laurents use gravity-fed cuves and age their wines in oak demi-muids and foudres. That they take such gutsy risks as bottling old-vine fruit with so little sulfur, without fining or filtration, only demonstrates the lengths they will go to in order to highlight the freshness, purity, and intoxicating aromas of their small, rare production.

2010 Domaine Durban Gigondas
Price: $30                             Sale $26.40          Case $306

Domaine de Durban is to walk through an astounding span of history. On the site of a former Roman healing springs destination, a mere handful of soil reveals well-preserved, ancient Roman roof tiles and medieval pot shards. The domaine and its vineyards sit atop a picturesque plateau in the Vaucluse, sheltered by the Dentelles de Montmirail, just above of the village of Beaumes-de-Venise. The scenic views put one at pause considering the timelessness—wine has been a part of the culture here for millennia, and ancient philosopher Pliny the Elder was the first known to praise the Muscat from this place. During the Middle Ages, it was a fortified farm, where it has run regularly since 1159. Jacques Leydier bought the property in the 1960s when the farm had fallen into disrepair. Today, his grandsons, Henri and Philippe, are running the domaine. This magical spot has assumed a higher purpose today, producing some of the most memorable wines of the Southern Rhône. The Leydiers farm fifty-five hectares of vineyards to make a powerful and aromatic Gigondas, a velvety Beaumes-de-Venise Rouge, and undeniably the most celebrated Muscat in the entire appellation.  A constellation of fortune seems to converge at this particular spot. Pine trees protect the area from the intensity of the persistent mistral. The soils are rich and deep, with clay, limestone, and the soft, ochre Trias, lending finesse and freshness to the wines. The high altitude in the vineyards means a slightly cooler microclimate with strong sun exposure, a blessing that the Leydiers credit for the amazing consistency their wines enjoy year after year. (Even The Oxford Companion to Wine takes space to note the terrific concentration that Durban’s vineyards achieve.) The Leydiers are particularly proud of their Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise, a vin doux naturel, as they are among the last to craft it in the traditional style. Leydier’s old-fashioned vinification keeps the spirits as low as possible, so that they may hold on to the bright freshness in the grapes. One can find more powerful Muscats, but none as tasty and fine.

Introducing Summer 2012 - NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHTS at CAFÉ MAXX

Quotes from some of our customers,

“You cannot afford not to eat here.” - Dan Dodge

“Many restaurants making summer offers, but this one tops them all.” -Howard Cohen

“Absolutely the best deal in town!” - Andrew Lampasone

Do to popular demand we are continuing our Neighborhood Nights three course menu. This is our answer to Florida's “Staycation”

For those of you who are going to be here for the summer months, relax and enjoy a small slice of luxury right around the corner!Join Darrel & Oliver for dinner, and relax while the summer heats up.

This promotion will be offered four nights a week, every Sunday thru Wednesday, through September 30.

Enjoy this summer long promotion featuring an amazing three course summer menu for $35 dollars. Chef Oliver has been working with his purveyors to provide us with the freshest ingredients at their peak offlavor and value. Oliver and staff will be highlighting seasonal favorites from our ever changing menu.

Menu subject to change weekly.

Café Maxx $35 Summer Menu is only offered upon request

NOT VALID WITH OTHER PROMOTIONS

No corkage allowed with this menu

Wines available in the store from the Southern Rhone:

 

We have a huge stash of wines from the Southern Rhone Valley here in the store and everything is on SALE FOR THE WEEK OF THE EVENT!!  Starting NOW!!

1990 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape
Price: $198.00    Sale $174.24
Quantity in Stock: 1

(96 points) Two great back to back vintages are the 1990 and 1989. The more developed 1990 boasts an incredible perfume of hickory wood, coffee, smoked meat, Asian spices, black cherries, and blackberries. Lush, opulent, and full-bodied, it is a fully mature, profound Beaucastel that will last another 15-20 years.  eRobertParker.com Jan 2003

 

1990 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape 3 Liter
Price: $990.00    Sale $871.20
Quantity in Stock: 1

(96 points) Two great back to back vintages are the 1990 and 1989. The more developed 1990 boasts an incredible perfume of hickory wood, coffee, smoked meat, Asian spices, black cherries, and blackberries. Lush, opulent, and full-bodied, it is a fully mature, profound Beaucastel that will last another 15-20 years. eRobertParker.com, Jan 2003

 

1991 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape
Price: $110.00    Sale $96.80
Quantity in Stock: 1

( 89 points) A solid wine, not as glorious as the top vintage, but still ripe and earthy. A leathery-barnyard component to the black cherry flavors, lingering on the finish. Drink now. 10,000 cases made. –HS
Issue: Mar 31, 1994

 

1992 Chateau Mont-Redon Chateauneuf Du Pape
Price: $70.00       Sale $61.60
Quantity in Stock: 3

 

1995 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf Du Pape
Price: $106.00    Sale $93.28
Quantity in Stock: 1

(93 points) The classic 1995 Chateauneuf du Pape will require discipline. Like most top vintages of Beaucastel, a decade of patience will be warranted before this wine will be enjoyable to drink. Given how tight and closed the 1993 and 1994 are, it is the rare vintage of Beaucastel (1989, 1990, and 1995) that is accessible in its youth, yet they will remain capable of aging for 20-25 years. In some ways, proprietors Francois and Jean-Pierre Perrin might be accused of trying to make the wine too long-lived, as if this is the primary merit to a great red wine. The 1995 will have three decades of longevity, but it will not be approachable before 2006. It exhibits a deep dark ruby/purple color, and a provocative (probably controversial) aromatic profile of animal fur, tar, truffles, black cherries, cassis, licorice, and minerals. A medium to full-bodied wine, with a boatload of tannin, considerable grip and structure, and a weighty feel in the mouth, this appears to be a classic vin de garde made in the style of the 1978 Beaucastel (which is still not close to full maturity). Prospective purchasers over the age of forty should be buying this wine for their children. Wine Advocate #113 Oct 1997

 

1998 Domaine De Charbonniere Chateauneuf Du Pape Les Hautes Brusquieres
Price: $90.00       Sale $79.20
Quantity in Stock: 3

(94 Points) The 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hautes Brusquieres Cuvee Speciale is pure kirsch liqueur, a riveting example of old-vine Chateauneuf du Pape, with loads of personality, its spectacular nose of kirsch and framboise followed by similar flavors in an opulent, pedal-to-the-metal style. Drink it over the next 5-7 years.  Both of these wines have reached full maturity, and both are gorgeous examples of the vintage and of Chateauneuf du Pape. Wine Advocate # 189, Jun 2010

 

1999 Domaine Font de Michelle Chateauneuf Du Pape Cuvee EG
Price: $72.00       Sale $63.36
Quantity in Stock: 7

(90 Points) The 1,000 case cuvee of 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Etienne Gonnet (a blend of 65% Grenache, 15% Cinsault, 10% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre) reveals a saturated dark ruby/garnet color. The nose has intense aromas of blackberry jam intertwined with cherries, garrigue, pepper, and smoke. It is an outstanding effort made in a modern style, but with plenty of the region's typicity. This sexy, full-bodied, layered wine can be drunk now and over the next 12+ years.  Wine Advocate # 138 Dec 2001

 

1999 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape MAGNUM
Price: $200.00    Sale $176
Quantity in Stock: 1

(91 points) The prodigious 1999 Beaucastel boasts aromas of blackberry fruit intermixed with cassis, licorice, roasted meats, leather, and truffles. While it does not possess much fat or precociousness, it displays definition and elegance. This is a full-bodied, concentrated, classic Beaucastel. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025. Wine Advocate #138, Dec 2001

 

2000 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee
Price: $90.00       Sale $79.20
Quantity in Stock: 3

(95 Points) The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee may be one of the few 2000s that is better than its 1998 counterpart. A deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by sweet aromas of creme de cassis, kirsch liqueur, cedar, licorice, and pepper. It smells like an open-air Provencal market. Sweet, fat, opulent, and voluptuous, with fabulous fruit concentration, sweet tannin, and a long, 45+ second finish, this powerful, deep, seamless 2000 is impeccably well-balanced. A tour de force in traditional Chateauneuf du Pape, it is accessible now, but should age easily for 15-20 years.  This is one of the benchmarks for traditionally-made Chateauneuf du Pape. Paul Feraud, a classmate of Henri Bonneau, is still involved in the running of this estate, but he has given more and more responsibility to his charming, talented daughter, Laurence.  Readers looking for uncompromising Chateauneuf du Pape that can age for two decades need look no further than Pegau. Their primary vineyard plots are well-placed lieux-dits called Monpertuis, Rayas, and La Crau, the latter being the parcel from which the bulk of Pegau's wine emerges. Wine Advocate # 145, Feb 2003

 

2003 Domaine de Fondreche Cuvee Nadal Cotes du Ventoux
Price: $24.75       Sale $21.78
Quantity in Stock: 5

(93 Points) One of this estate’s most brilliant offerings is the 2003 Nadal, a 30,000 bottle cuvee of 50% tank-aged Grenache and 50% Syrah aged in small wood barrels. This wine sees virtually no intervention from the winemaker. It is aged on its lees with no SO2 before being bottled without fining or filtration. A deep purple color is followed by sumptuous aromas of blackberry liqueur, kirsch, and licorice. This full-bodied, voluptuously-textured red boasts terrific fruit, texture, and length for a wine of this price category. It should drink well for 5-7 years. Wine Advocate #156, Dec 2004

 

2003 Domaine Roger Sabon Chateauneuf Du Pape Le Secret de Sabon
Price: $225.00    Sale $198
Quantity in Stock: 14

(96 Points) The 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Le Secret des Sabon is extremely powerful and full-bodied with that note of truffle oil, burning embers, and roasted meats along with melted licorice, creme de cassis, blackberry and cherry. Dense, full-bodied, and expansive, with high glycerin and what must be at least 16+% alcohol, this is a formidable Chateauneuf du Pape that should drink well for 15+ years. Wine Advocate # 163, Feb 2006

 

2003 Roger Sabon Chateauneuf Du Pape Les Olivets
Price: $35.00
Quantity in Stock: 12

(88 Points) The 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Olivets has a dark plum/garnet color and a big, sweet, spicy, earthy nose with hints of Provencal herbs, tapenade, pepper, and spicy black cherries and currants. It is soft, round, and ideal for drinking over the next 6-7 years.  Wine Advocate # 163  Feb 2006

 

2004 Chateau Redortier Gigondas
Price: $25.50       Sale $22.44
Quantity in Stock: 55

This blend is 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah. The nose here is just brimming with fresh flowers and sweet herbs, what the French call "garrigue", also a good amount of fresh berry pie like fruit aromas red cherries, pomegranate and cranberry like fruit showing very classic southern Rhone bouquet. Fresh and lively on the tongue with an array of that floral and herbal nuance through the finish with a good amount of ripe fruit and a nice savory edge to the finish along with a note of pepper. Finish 40 Excellent

 

2004 Domaine La Soumade Rasteau Cotes du Rhone Cuvee de Confiance
Price: $42.50       Sale $37.40
Quantity in Stock: 16

This wine is massive for a Cotes du Rhone with lots of ripe black cherry fruit, dark mocha spice and a nice hand of fresh herbs and floral notes, a big wine with layers of flavors on the finish.

(90 Points) The 2004 Cuvee Confiance Rasteau reveals a big, rich style with plenty of chocolate, barbecue spice, black cherry liqueur, herb, and earth characteristics. Medium to full-bodied and powerful, but soft enough to be approached, it should evolve nicely for 10-12 years.

Although the irrepressible Andre Romero hardly needed help from Bordeaux, he has brought in Stephane Derenoncourt, the well-known wine guru of St.-Emilion and Pomerol as a consultant. Romero has purchased some parcels in both Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape, but his glories remain his offerings from the ancient, sun-drenched/roasted, old Grenache vines of Rasteau. Romero is one of the region’s more modern winemakers, aging his top cuvees in small oak barrels. However, these wines easily absorb their wood component given their tremendous concentration and power.

 

2004 Domaine de Janasse Chateauneuf Du Pape Vielle Vignes
Price: $88.25       Sale $77.66
Quantity in Stock: 18

(93+ Points) Possibly better, but certainly not as charming as the Chaupin or the regular bottling of Chateauneuf, the 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes has the most tannin and rigidity at present, and needs 3-4 years of bottle age before it will be drinkable. It should keep for 15 or so years. Dense dark purple to the rim with a beautiful nose of flowers, blueberries, black raspberries and cherries, this is intense, full-bodied wine with moderately high tannins and brilliant symmetry as well as purity. Year in and year out, this is certainly one of the dozen or so top wines of Chateauneuf du Pape, and 2004 is no exception.

Over the last decade Domaine de la Janasse has become one of the half dozen or so finest estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. However, they also produce an impressive range of Cotes du Rhones. This was also one of the few dozen or so estates that had exceptional success in 2003, a challenging vintage but, for those who did it right, some monumental wines. Proprietor Christophe Sabon compares 2004 with 1999, but with slightly more fruit and power. Wine Advocate # 169, Feb 2007

 

2004 Domaine Du Marcoux Chateauneuf Du Pape
Price: $56.25       Sale $49.50
Quantity in Stock: 8

(91 Points) The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape (16,000 bottles) is a sexy, open-knit style of wine for the Armeniers, with a deep ruby/purple color and a big, sweet, expansive nose of blackberry and black currants with some cherry liqueur, dried herbs, smoke, and licorice. The wine is delicious to say the least, but also elegant, pure, and well-balanced. It should drink nicely for a decade or more. As I have written in the past, for well over a decade this has been a totally bio-dynamically farmed estate. One of my favorite estates and reference points for Chateauneuf du Pape is that of Sophie and Catherine Armenier. Chateauneuf du Pape, which has made such an extraordinary qualitative renaissance over the last ten to fifteen years, is one of the appellations of France that has an unusual number of women running the show and producing superb wines, and Domaine de Marcoux is certainly one of them. Wine Advocate # 169, February 2007

 

2005 Domaine Marcoux Chateauneuf du Pape
Price: $70.00       Sale $61.60
Quantity in Stock: 20

(93 Points) 2005 was a fabulous year for Marcoux, and the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape (80% Grenache and 20% Syrah and Cinsault) boasts a dark plum/purple color along with beautiful bouquet filled with scents of flowers, truffles, roasted meats, blueberries, black raspberries, and licorice. This opulent, intense wine possesses heady alcohol as well as a sweet, soft, full-bodied, moderately tannic finish. This beauty is one of the finest traditional cuvees made over the last decade. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020+. This brilliant estate in the northern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape is admirably run by Sophie and Catherine Armenier. They continue to fine tune the wines produced at this biodynamically farmed vineyard, and their white Chateauneuf du Pape is now one of the three or four finest of the appellation. Sadly, they only make about 4,000 bottles of this blend of 66% Roussanne and 34% Bourboulenc.Wine Advocate # 173, Oct 2007

 

2005 Domaine Roger Sabon Chateauneuf Du Pape Les Olivets
Price: $43.25       Sale $38.06
Quantity in Stock: 20

(89 Points) The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Olivets boasts more tapenade notes and again the classic pepper, licorice, herb scents intermixed with black currant and sweet cherry. The wine is surprisingly forward for the vintage but I actually liked the charm and purity of the 2006 slightly more. In any event, they are both excellent, possibly outstanding wines meant to be drunk in their first 10-12 years of life. Normally this cuvee produces around 30,000 bottles of wine. One might think that four separate cuvees of Chateauneuf du Pape is a bit much, but Jean-Jacques Sabon and his family continue to provide reference point wines at all different levels, as this is one of the top estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. Both 2006 and 2005 have turned out very well at this estate, with the 2006s softer and more fruit-forward than the 2005s, which are massive, bigger wines, especially at the top end for the Prestige and Le Secret. Wine Advocate # 173, Oct 2007

 

2005 Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin
Price: $74.00       Sale $65.12
Quantity in Stock: 12

(94 Points) A 100% Grenache cuvee from sandy and clay soils, the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin has a deep ruby/purple color and a sweet nose of smoked meats and game, blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with some sweet cherry, plum, and a hint of fig. The wine boasts some charcoal notes, plenty of ocean sea breeze, and a hint of seaweed wrapper (nori) with a long, heady, stunningly rich finish. This is a beauty, but it really begs for 2-3 years of cellaring and should keep for two decades. Tasting at Janasse is fun. It is a large estate of 195 acres with 45 of them situated in Chateauneuf du Pape. Even if you weren’t obsessed with their fabulous Chateauneuf du Papes, they have a portfolio of brilliant wines from Cotes du Rhone as well as a vin de pays. Young proprietor Christophe Sabon, working with his wife and father, continues to fine-tune his winemaking skills. He is already brilliant at reds and shows increasing confidence in the quality of his white wine cuvees. Wine Advocate # 173, Oct 2007

 

2005 Charbonniere Chateauneuf Du Pape Cuvee Vielle Vignes
Price: $50.75       Sale $44.66
Quantity in Stock: 7

(90 Points) The elegantly-styled 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape offers a lovely concoction of sweet cherries, creme de cassis, licorice, and incense. Surprisingly approachable, it should evolve nicely for a decade or more.  This is one of the most well-run estates in Chateauneuf du Pape thanks to the meticulous and passionate efforts of proprietor Michel Maret (readers should not overlook is Vacqueyras, one of the finest wines of that appellation). While the 2006s are not as powerful or rich as the 2005s, it is an excellent vintage for Charbonniere. In fact, I was somewhat surprised that there was less significant difference between the cuvees than usual.  Wine Advocate # 173, Oct 2007

 

2005 Domaine Roger Sabon Chateauneuf Du Pape Reserve
Price: $47.50       Sale $41.80
Quantity in Stock: 4

(90 Points) The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reserve is an even bigger wine than the 2006, more tannic, with greater density but again the classic fig, garrigue, tobacco leaf, kirsch, and meaty notes. In the finish, the tannins kick in. This wine definitely needs 2-3 years of cellaring, but is outstanding in richness and depth and should age nicely for 15 or more years. In most years there are between 1,000 and 1,500 cases of the Reserve. One might think that four separate cuvees of Chateauneuf du Pape is a bit much, but Jean-Jacques Sabon and his family continue to provide reference point wines at all different levels, as this is one of the top estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. Both 2006 and 2005 have turned out very well at this estate, with the 2006s softer and more fruit-forward than the 2005s, which are massive, bigger wines, especially at the top end for the Prestige and Le Secret.  Wine Advocate # 173, Oct 2007

 

2005 Domaine Roger Sabon Chateauneuf du Pape Prestige
Price: $75.00       Sale $66
Quantity in Stock: 9

(93 Points) The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige is a classic. Full-bodied, powerful, dense, with a complete personality, it exhibits terrific peppery, licorice-infused, black currant and kirsch-like fruit, a broad, savory, expansive mouthfeel, and a powerful, long finish with sweet but not very noticeable tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. One might think that four separate cuvees of Chateauneuf du Pape is a bit much, but Jean-Jacques Sabon and his family continue to provide reference point wines at all different levels, as this is one of the top estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. Both 2006 and 2005 have turned out very well at this estate, with the 2006s softer and more fruit-forward than the 2005s, which are massive, bigger wines, especially at the top end for the Prestige and Le Secret. Wine Advocate # 173, Oct 2007

 

2006 Vidal Fleury Cotes Du Rhone
Price: $15.75       Sale $13.86
Quantity in Stock: 9

(87 Points) The first vintage where significant changes will be noticeable will be 2008. A blend of equal parts Grenache and Syrah, the 2006 Cotes du Rhone exhibits sweet, dense, chocolaty, black cherry fruit, medium body, touches of pepper and spice, and a soft finish. Drink it over the next several years.  Vidal Fleury is undergoing a dramatic metamorphosis. A new state of the art winery has been constructed below the slopes of Cote Rotie’s Cote Blonde, and a new winemaker has been brought in to revamp these somewhat rustic wines. I think we will see earlier bottling as well as more attention to detail.  Wine Advocate # 179, Oct 2008

 

2006 Guigal Saint Joseph Vignes de Hospice
Price: $117.00
Quantity in Stock: 2

(92-94 Points) A sensational effort, the inky/ruby/purple-tinged 2006 St.-Joseph Vignes de l’Hospice exhibits aromas of graphite, black currants, raspberries, Asian spice, and incense. A wine of superb richness, full-bodied power, and structured yet sweet, noble tannins, it should evolve for 15 or more years.

 

2006 Vidal Fleury Chateauneuf du Pape
Price: $50.75       Sale $44.66
Quantity in Stock: 8

(88-90 Points) The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape, which is dominated by Grenache, reveals plenty of garrigue, lavender, kirsch liqueur, and notions of pepper and earth. This dense, medium to full-bodied 2006 still has some tannins to shed, but it should turn out to be very good, possibly outstanding after bottling.

Vidal Fleury is undergoing a dramatic metamorphosis. A new state of the art winery has been constructed below the slopes of Cote Rotie’s Cote Blonde, and a new winemaker has been brought in to revamp these somewhat rustic wines. I think we will see earlier bottling as well as more attention to detail. Wine Advocate # 179, Oct 2008

 

2006 Jaboulet Chateauneuf Du Pape Cedres
Price: $57.50       Sale $46.00
Quantity in Stock: 11

 

2006 Jean Luc Colombo Chateauneuf du Pape Bartavelle
Price: $45.00       Sale $39.60
Quantity in Stock: 7

Classic Chateauneuf from a forward and seductive vintage with a nice amount of cherry berry pie like fruit on the nose along with hints of fresh flowers and herbs (garrigue). Very smooth and drinkable style with bright fruit and well balanced acidity echoing the nuance in the nose through the finish. Finish 35+ Excellent

 

2006 Domaine Giraud Chateauneuf du Pape Grenache de Pierre
Price: $75.00       Sale $66
Quantity in Stock: 3

(95 Points) A candidate for wine of the vintage is the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Grenaches de Pierre. The essence of kirsch liqueur in that Rayas/Chateau Lafleur style, this wine has great intensity, full-bodied power, a seamless, silky integration of acidity and tannin, and a massive but light to the touch mouthfeel, this stunningly brilliant wine tastes like the Musigny of Chateauneuf du Pape. Drink it over the next 12-15+ years. Wine Advocate # 179, Oct 2008

 

2006 Domaine Marcoux Chateauneuf Du Pape Vielle Vignes
Price: $175.00    Sale $154
Quantity in Stock: 11

(95 Points) One of the vintage’s blockbusters is the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, with even higher alcohol (16.2%) than the 2007. It offers lovely notes of black fruits, truffle oil, roasted meats, beef blood, black raspberries, abundant kirsch, and a hint of roasted Provencal herbs. On a much faster evolutionary track than the 2007, it is a layered, multi-dimensional effort displaying a finish that lasts nearly 60 seconds. Some unresolved tannins in the finish suggest this wine should be cellared for 2-3 years, and consumed over the following two decades. Wine Advocate # 179, Oct 2008

 

2006 Marcoux Chateauneuf du Pape Magnum 1.5 Liter
Price: $141.25
Quantity in Stock: 5

(92 Points) The stunning, deep ruby/purple-hued 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits black fruits, licorice, incense, and hints of grilled meats and garrigue. While not as explosively aromatic or full as the 2007, the full-bodied, velvety textured, big, substantial 2006 is a top success for the vintage. Drink it over the next 15 years. Wine Advocate # 179, Oct 2008

 

2007 Chateau Mont Thabor Cotes Du Rhone
Price: $18.75       Sale $16.50
Quantity in Stock: 17

Fresh plowed earth barnyard notes mushroom provencial herbs and floral perfume notes fresh berry pie like fruit fairly complex bouquet. 80 Grenache, 10% Cinsault, 10% Syrah Mourvedre. Good concentration on the tongue with smooth tannins and a host of that floral and barnyard quality that is in the nose through the finish. A lot of wine for the money. Finish 35+ Very Good +

 

2007 Domaine Gallety Cotes Du Vivarais
Price: $28.50       Sale $25.08

The bright and talented Alain Gallety began making wine in the Côtes du Vivarais alongside his father. Together, they had a vision. They built a state-of-the-art winery, constructed right into the hillside below their high-altitude vineyards. Today, Alain’s son, David-Alexandre, works with him. Quietly and diligently, they imagine one day making one of the greatest cuvées of the Southern Rhône. One wouldn’t initially think such a goal is easy to achieve in a little known area as the Vivarais. The Côtes run down the western flank of the Rhône, just south of Montélimar in the Ardèche. Although these hills mirror those of the Côtes-du-Rhône on the opposite bank of the river, the Côtes du Vivarais was only recently awarded A.O.C. in 1999. Over a decade later, the region is finally starting to receive the attention it deserves, both as a cooler and wetter climate than its neighbors across the river, but with a longer ripening season. The wines here stand as a gateway between the Northern and Southern Rhône, frequently seeing equal blends of the noble grapes, Syrah and Grenache.

Though the Galletys reside here, making their exquisite blends with pride, determination, and focus, their minds are frequently traveling to other regions in France, where they are closely studying the methodologies and techniques of their contemporaries. Alain takes every aspect of the process seriously. To grow the quality of grapes he wants, he farms his fifteen hectares of vineyards organically, as he has done since the early 80’s. To best insure freshness, he has installed top-loading, hatch doors over their gravity-fed cuves, so that the grapes go exactly where they need to immediately following the harvest—bypassing the cellar completely to begin their fermentation. The wines are then aged in Burgundian barrels, as the Galletys believe them to produce wines with greater finesse. Today, they are planting a vineyard so stony and wild that it will have to be worked by a draft horse. Alain Gallety is indeed a man of vision. Domaine Gallety is a new acquisition to the KLWM portfolio, but one well-positioned for stardom with wines of such brightness, density, and impeccable balance.

 

2007 Domaine Roger Sabon Chateauneuf du Pape Les Olivets
Price: $45.00       Sale $39.60
Quantity in Stock: 3

(90-92 Points) The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Olivets is Provencal, displaying notes of roasted herbs, licorice, sweet black cherries, and pepper. Filled with seductive fruit and glycerin as well as a heady, long finish, it should be enjoyed over the next 10-12 years. Wine Advocate # 179, Oct 2008

 

2007 Monpertuis Chateauneuf Du Pape
Price: $52.50       Sale $46.20
Quantity in Stock: 22

Powerfully fruity, yet fresh and taut with persistent mineral flavors. - The NY Times #1 Pick for this vintage.

 

2007 Brunel Les Cailloux Chateauneuf du Pape
Price: $47.25       Sale $41.58
Quantity in Stock: 5

Wow stunning bouquet with a host of red berry cherries plums and a bouquet of fresh cut flowers very exotic, an average age of 60 years old 65 Grenache 20 Mourvedre, Syrah and Cinsault. Ultra rich and concentrated on the palate with a host of fresh floral and spice notes, very complex and long finish. Finish 45+ Most Excellent

 

2008 Domaine Andezon Cotes du Rhone les Vignerons d'Estezargues
Price: $13.50                       Sale $11.88
Quantity in Stock: 11

(87 Points) The 100% tank-fermented and aged blend of 90% Syrah and 10% Grenache, the 2008 Les Vignerons d’Estezargues is a terrific buy that can probably be found for under $10 a bottle. It is chunkier than the more delineated and vibrant 2007, but it offers copious quantities of black cherry fruit, licorice, pepper, and spice.

One of safest, most reliable Cotes du Rhone cuvees coming from this large cooperative south of Avignon, these are both special cuvees selected and bottled unfined and unfiltered for the American importer.

 

2008 Clos Chanteduc Cotes du Rhone
Price: $16.50       Sale $14.52
Quantity in Stock: 10

(87 Points) The 2008 Cotes du Rhone (80% Grenache and 20% Syrah) exhibits kirsch, tapenade, herb and spice notes in its medium-bodied, soft, round personality. It is ideal for drinking over the next 2-3 years.

The home estate of the renowned restaurant critic and food writer, Patricia Wells, Clos Chanteduc’s 7.5 acres of vines are located just outside of her residence in the ancient Roman town of Vaison-la-Romaine. The wine is made by Yves Gras at Domaine Santa Duc, and both the 2008 and 2009 are very strong efforts for their vintages. Wine Advocate # 191, Oct 2010

 

2008 Domaine Marcoux Chateauneuf du Pape
Price: $65.25       Sale $57.42
Quantity in Stock: 12

(89 points) Only one Chateauneuf du Pape was produced in 2008. The 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape is composed of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah and represents one of the better efforts of the vintage. Its deep ruby color is followed by sweet, upfront aromas of blackberries, black currants, licorice, underbrush and loamy soil. Unlike many of its predecessors, it does not require additional bottle age, so enjoy this deep, full-bodied red over the next 7-8 years.

This estate has been long run with great attention to detail and passion by the Armenier sisters, Sophie and Catherine. One of the oldest estates in Chateauneuf du Pape (records go back to the 14th century), the vineyards are biodynamically farmed at this small, 42-acre property. The Armenier sisters’ newest acquisition is the Domaine de la Lorentine in the up and coming appellation of Lirac. This wine gets better with each vintage as they get to know the vineyard. Wine Advocate # 191 Oct 2010

 

2008 Domaine Roger Sabon Chateauneuf du Pape Prestige
Price: $70.75       Sale $62.26
Quantity in Stock: 8

(92 Points)  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.  Wine Advocate #191, Oct 2010

2009 Domaine de Janasse Cotes du Rhone Terre D'Argile
Price: $29.75
Quantity in Stock: 11

A blend of 55% Grenache and the rest mostly Mourvedre with a touch of Carignan. Aged completely in foudres and older small barrels. Lots of sweet ripe black cherry and black raspberry coulis like fruit on the nose with and array of fresh flowers and an array of soy and brown spices on the nose. Juicy fruit on the tongue with ripe round tannins and good freshness through the finish along with that perfumed floral nuance and a fresh floral garrigue character, sweet herbs and a tangy finish big but still quite fresh. Finish 40+ Excellent +

 

2009 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape
Price: $121.50    Sale $106.92
Quantity in Stock: 3

(94 points) The 2009 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape is reminiscent of their brilliant 1985. It will be one of the rare Beaucastels that is drinkable upon release. Made from this estate’s classic blend, it possesses soft tannins as well as a silky, open-knit seductiveness, a dense plum/purple color and a beautiful perfume of smoky Provencal herbs intermixed with grilled steak juices, garrigue, kirsch and blue as well as black fruits. The wine is full-bodied, unctuously textured, and silky smooth (the latter characteristic being somewhat atypical for a young Beaucastel). If it performs like the 1985, it will drink well young and continue to do so for 25 or more years.  Brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois Perrin as well as their four sons, Thomas, Marc, Pierre and Mathieu, have quickly become the dominate wine producers of the entire southern Rhone Valley. They have expanded their operation even further by partnering with the Jaboulets. Now having over 1,200 acres in vine and extensive contracts, this is a high quality locomotive, great news for consumers seeking a range of top quality red and white wines in all price ranges. The Perrins’ greatest success is undeniably their enormous quantities of high quality, inexpensive wines called La Vieille Ferme, a white from the Cotes du Luberon and a red from the Cotes du Ventoux. The Perrins are now the top producers of wines from the cool climate southern Rhone appellation of Vinsobres, located in the northern sector of the region and meaning “sober wine.” In 2008, the Perrins purchased one of the better estates in Gigondas, Clos des Tourelles, a 25 acre property located at the southern end of the village from which they make two cuvees. True stars in the Perrin portfolio are the white and red Cotes du Rhone from their estate called Coudoulet which is adjacent to the appellation of Chateauneuf du Pape. As longtime readers know, Chateau de Beaucastel makes two of the great white wines of the southern Rhone, although in Chateauneuf du Pape the rather dramatic amelioration of quality that has taken place with white winemaking has given them more competition than they had a decade ago. Wine Advocate #197 Oct 2011

 

2009 Saint Siffrein Chateauneuf Du Pape
Price: $45.00       Sale $39.60
Quantity in Stock: 12

(91 Points) The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape (65% Grenache and the rest Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault) is a beauty. Aged completely in foudre, it reveals classic Provencal notes of garrigue, red and black currants, pepper and black cherries. Full-bodied, luscious and supple textured with silky tannins and low acidity, it should drink well for a decade.  This low-profile, superb, organically run Chateauneuf du Pape estate has long been owned by the Chastan family, who has about 35 acres of vines, all located in the northernmost sector of the appellation in two highly respected lieux-dits, Palestor and Cabrieres. Wine Advocate #197, Oct 2011

 

2009 Domaine de Marcoux Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc
Price: $65.00       Sale $57.20
Quantity in Stock: 9

A blend of 80% Roussanne and 20% Bourboulenc Production is usually just a few hundred cases.  "One of the appellation’s great traditional names as well as one of the many biodynamically farmed vineyards of the area, sisters Sophie and Catherine Armenier run this estate with extreme passion and attention to detail. As I have indicated in the past, this family can trace its origins back to the mid-14th century. Domaine de Marcoux owns some very old vines from which they produce nearly 3,000 cases of their regular Chateauneuf du Pape, and about 400-500 cases of the Vieilles Vignes." Wine Advocate # 185 Oct 2009

 

2009 Domaine Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc
Price: $60.00       Sale $52.80
Quantity in Stock: 10

Notes of beeswax and anise to the pear and tangerine like citrus fruit very pretty nose hibiscus floral notes. A bit of an oily texture on the tongue nice richness on the palate ending a bit flat with a bit of heat showing on the finish also, beeswax like notes. Finish 40+ Most Excellent

 

2010 Maxime Francois Laurent Cotes du Rhone “Il Fait Soif”
Price: $29.50       Sale $25.96
Quantity in Stock: 3

Domaine Gramenon is the authentic embodiment of the philosophies that the Laurents espouse. They do not merely champion organic farming, but they incorporate the concept of sustainability into their daily lives by growing their own food and raising their own animals. Though Michèle and Maxime continue to test the confines of the appellation, the cellars are unsurprisingly old-fashioned. The Laurents use gravity-fed cuves and age their wines in oak demi-muids and foudres. That they take such gutsy risks as bottling old-vine fruit with so little sulfur, without fining or filtration, only demonstrates the lengths they will go to in order to highlight the freshness, purity, and intoxicating aromas of their small, rare production.

 

2010 Domaine Marcoux Chateauneuf Du Pape Blanc
Price: $67.50       Sale $59.40
Quantity in Stock: 9

(93 points) The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc, a blend of 70% Roussanne and 30% Bourboulenc aged in stainless steel, displays beautiful crushed rock and spring flowers as well as honeysuckle and white pit fruits in a striking bouquet. It is medium to full-bodied, extremely fresh, and although it is 15% natural alcohol, the wine is amazingly precise and delicious. It is difficult to estimate how long these wines will last (they generally age much better than I give them credit for), but given how wonderful this wine is already, I would drink it over the next 3-5 years.

Given the fact that the Armenier family can trace their roots in Chateauneuf du Pape back to 1344, one could say that they may have even more experience than the Chaves up in the northern Rhone, which only go back to the late 15th century! Run for well over a decade now by sisters, Sophie and Catherine, this biodynamically administered estate of 42 acres produces some of the very finest, complex, and most natural wines not only in France, but anywhere in the world. Perhaps the wine that is most under the radar for consumers is their brilliant white Chateauneuf du Pape. Wine Advocate #197 Oct 2011