2009 Domaine de Marcoux Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Previously $60)

SKU #1075048 93 points Wine Spectator

Quite rich, with voluptuous cherry preserves, red currant paste and linzer torte notes are racing along, inlaid with mouthwatering toasted spice, anise and graphite flavors all driving through the finish. Long and grippy, yet fresh and very well-defined. Feels like this should flesh out even more with cellaring. Best from 2014 through 2025. (2/ 2012)

92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

A blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre and the rest Syrah and Cinsault, the wine has a deep plum/purple color and a sweet nose of raspberries, ground pepper, white flowers and licorice. It is full-bodied, opulent, and difficult to resist. It should drink well for 15 or more 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. (10/ 2011)

92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Vivid ruby. Red berry preserves and potpourri on the exotically perfumed nose. Deep and intensely fruity but light on its feet, offering an array of red and dark fruit flavors lifted by peppery spices. Shows no rough edges and finishes with excellent clarity, cut and length. This wine is surprisingly approachable now. (2/ 2012)

K&L Notes

From Jancis Robinson: "Gamey and interesting on the nose with concentration and drama. Not too much alcohol though the tannins are certainly there and will have to be waited for. Full-blooded Châteauneuf but no specious sweetness." (11/2010) 15% abv.