2009 Roger Sabon "Les Olivets" Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Pre-Arrival)

SKU #1070200 91 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The least expensive offering, the dense ruby/plum/purple-colored 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Olivets (80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 10% Cinsault aged in wood foudres or smaller old oak barrels) is a classic example of Provence. Lush, dense, raspberry, fig, plum and cherry notes intermixed with lavender and underbrush emerge from this full-bodied, ripe, juicy, succulent, seductive wine. It should drink well for at least a decade. (10/ 2011)

89-91 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Deep ruby. Lively and complex nose exudes candied cherry, blackberry, violet, anise and spice cake. Intensely flavored and nicely detailed, offering juicy, vaguely bitter red and dark fruit flavors and complicating notes of allspice and anise. Closes with good clarity, length and an echo of licorice. (4/ 2011)

91 points Wine Spectator

Pure, fresh and sleek, with a lovely warm linzer sauce aroma backed by creamy cherry preserves, plum and black currant fruit. Subtle spice shadings hang on the silky finish. Drink now through 2020. (11/ 2011)