The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape (which tips the scales around 15% natural alcohol) is a great example of traditional Chateauneuf du Pape winemaking. A dense dark ruby color is followed by a sexy nose of raspberries ground pepper spice box damp earth kirsch and dark currants. Full-bodied complex elegant and already irresistible as the tannins have completely melted away it can be drunk now and over the next 15+ years.

A great vintage for Laurent and showing beautifully from bottle the 2009 Domaine Charvin Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an energetic lively red that possesses edgy minerality and rolled stone-like notes to go with licorice garrigue flowers and a core of raspberry and blackberry fruit. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully balanced on the palate this shows beautiful richness but stays remarkably light and airy without ever being heavy. Loads of fine tannin kicks in on the finish and it should be given 1-3 years of bottle age and then consumed over the following decade or longer.

This is very well-built with a range of apple wood and toasted spice notes framing the core of crushed plum blackberry and cassis. Dusty structure give a long and grippy feel through the finish while a tarry edge emerges on the back end. More oomph than usual for this estate but it's all inlaid with fresh acidity and minerality for balance. Best from 2014 through 2025. 500 cases imported. -JM