2010 Domaine de Cristia "Vieilles Vignes" Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Pre-Arrival)

SKU #1113869 96 points Wine Spectator

Very expressive, with layers of lush blueberry coulis, fig paste, currant confiture and melted red licorice all wrapped with toasted spice and coursing through the vivacious finish. A gorgeous display of fruit, with the spine to keep it balanced. Drink now through 2027. (10/ 2012)

95 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (100% Grenache from 70- to 80-year-old vines planted in pure sand) was aged in 2- to 3-year-old small barrels. While it is a nearer-term drinking proposition, it does reveal some structure as well as the vintage’s reserved personality. Despite the structure of the vintage and its backward character, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes has enough openness and appeal that it can be drunk in its youth, although 2-3 years of cellaring is suggested. The wine’s dense plum/purple color is followed by a sweet bouquet of roasted herbs, black truffles, kirsch, raspberries and incense. Full-bodied, powerful and rich with decent acidity as well as moderate tannin and an exceptionally long finish, this 2010 should hit its prime in 4-5 years and last for 15-20. (10/ 2012)

92-94 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

(100% grenache, from vines reportedly around 80 years old): Dark purple. Pungent dark berries, sassafras and licorice on the aromatic nose. Lush, potent blackberry and cassis flavors pick up notes of candied lavender and oak spice with air. Youthfully grapey and chewy on the finish, closing with fine-grained tannins, a jolt of sweet black and blue fruits and impressive persistence. (1/ 2012)

Jancis Robinson

Very complete and satisfying. Sweetness akin to cocoa powder but very lively too and with very fine tannins. All pleasure even if not earthy. Edge of rose petal. So sweet! 18+/20 points. (12/ 2011)