More edgy and precise than the `07 the 2010 Domaine Grand Veneur Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Origines a blend of 50% Grenache and close to an even split of Syrah and Mourvèdre that's aged for 18 months in new oak. Showing a touch more wood than the Vieilles Vignes with intense black cherry blackberry liqueur graphite licorice spice box and roasted meats all showing on the nose this full-bodied structured and concentrated Châteauneuf-du-Pape is beautifully proportioned on the palate possesses excellent freshness brilliant purity and a mineral-laced tannic finish. As with the Vieilles Vignes this shouldn't be purchased by those looking for instant gratification; bottles should be given 4-5 years of cellaring and then consumed over the following 15-20 years.

Another blockbuster is the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Origines. A blend of 50% Grenache 30% Syrah and 20% Mourvedre (45- to-95-year-old vines) aged in small oak it exhibits an opaque purple color as well as a sweet bouquet of blackberries espresso roast ink and graphite. While clearly a modern-styled Chateauneuf du Pape it retains plenty of the region's typicity and authenticity. It should drink well for 15+ years.

Racy offering delicious dark bramble linzer torte and blackberry notes with a strong graphite edge coursing through the finish. Gains density and flesh on the finish which bodes well for the cellar. A modern style but shows solid grounding in its terroir. Best from 2014 through 2022. -JM