The 2009 Domaine de la Solitude (Lançon Père et Fils) Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve Secrète is a blend of 60% Syrah and 40% Grenache all from the sandy soils around the estate (that would be La Crau) and aged in 65% new oak. Showing an overall elegant yet powerful profile the wine yields beautiful aromas of decadent cassis and blackberry fruits white chocolate spice cabinet and roasted meats on the nose. This is followed by a full-bodied classy wine that carries fine tannin solid focus a fleshy round texture and a very long finish. It should benefit from 2-4 years in the cellar and have upwards of 15 years of longevity.

A 60/40 split of Grenache and Syrah, the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape la Reserve Secrete is a much more open, flamboyant and sexy wine, especially when tasted beside the more backwards, tight and structured 2010. Kirsch, spice box, incense, flowers and garrigue all emerge from this beautiful, full-bodied, sexy 2009 that has sweet tannin and a great texture. Drink it anytime over the coming 10-15 years. - Jeb Dunnuck