The 2010 Chateau Sixtine Chateauneuf du Pape performed exquisitely and, again, was one of the top wines of the vintage. With better integration of the new oak than I have previously seen from Jean-Marc Diffonty, this wine's opaque ruby/purple color possesses lots of licorice, asphalt, graphite, blackberry and kirsch notes as well as hints of lavender, forest floor and garrigue. This opulent, full-bodied effort is approachable, but it will not hit its full stride for another 2-4 years. It should drink well for 15-20 years thereafter. - Robert M. Parker, Jr.

Earthy, sweet, fleshy, fresh, ripe, pure, black and red cherries, pepper, fennel, garrigue and spice open the wine. Rich, fleshy, sweet, round and intense, there is no sensation of heat in the long, 15.5% alcohol finish. Few wines of this quality are available at this price level. This is a top level Chateauneuf du Pape wine worth buying. Read more at:https://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/wine-tasting-note/?vintage=2010&wine=Chateau%20Sixtine%20Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Showing beautifully from bottle and up there with the best vintage of this cuvee to date the 2010 Château Sixtine (reviewed last year as the Réserve Sixtine) is a dense meaty red that offers up decadent crème de cassis creamy black raspberry licorice toasted spice and mineral qualities on both the nose and palate. Gaining additional meatiness with air this full-bodied Châteauneuf-du-Pape has a voluptuous rich texture beautiful freshness and a structured tannic finish that will require 3-5 years to round out. While the higher percentage of Syrah shows here this is very well-done and the purity balance and depth are exceptional. It can be consumed now due to the fruit but will ideally be given 5-7 years in the cellar. It will drink well for upwards of two decades.

A dark, brawny style, with roasted apple wood and dark espresso framing the currant paste, blackberry pâte de fruit, melted black licorice and bittersweet cocoa notes. There's lots of muscle on the finish, but also lovely flickers of violet and pastis for nuance. Needs time to unwind fully. Best from 2015 through 2030. – JM