2010 Domaine de la Charbonnière "Les Hauts Brusquières Cuvée Spéciale" Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Pre-Arrival)

SKU #1085016 96 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The sensational 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Hautes Brusquieres Cuvee Speciale explodes from the glass with aromas of roasted Provencal herbs/garrigue, cassis, blackberries, kirsch, loamy earth, and a subtle nuance of spring flowers. Full-bodied with superb definition, massive fruit concentration and a long finish displaying dazzling purity, texture and length, this sensational wine is one of the finest wines Domaine de la Charbonniere has yet produced. It should age gracefully for two decades. One of my favorite estates in the southern Rhone, Domaine de la Charbonniere is run with great passion and enthusiasm by Michel Maret, and more recently, by his two daughters. The Marets own nearly 44 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape, and one of their most under-valued and under-rated wines is their sensational Vacqueyras. They consistently produce four cuvees of Chateauneuf du Pape that are traditionally made, even though a handful of the wines spend time in small oak casks (although new oak is generally shunned at this estate). (10/ 2012)

92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Vivid ruby. Black raspberry, cola and potpourri on the highly perfumed nose. Sappy and densely packed, offering sweet red and dark berry compote flavors and a touch of lavender pastille. Closes smooth and broad, with resonating spiciness and excellent clarity. (2/ 2013)