($100) Shows lots of exotic braised fig black tea roasted mesquite incense and bittersweet cocoa notes with a core of black cherry and raspberry fruit in reserve. The long flashy finish lets pastis and Black Forest cake notes emerge. This has some toast to absorb but it's all there. Best from 2010 through 2025. 200 cases imported.

The modern styled 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Juline (mostly Grenache vinified and aged in new barrels) has elegant yet rich and decadent notes of cassis, currants, toasted spice and sweet oak. Full-bodied, perfectly balanced and layered, it has plenty of integrated oak but has a beautifully Provencal, lengthy style that will keep it drinking nicely for another 10-15 years. - Jeb Dunnuck