The 2010 Clos Saint Jean Châteauneuf-du-Pape tasted as individual components should be up there with the '07 and '09 versions in terms of quality. The final blend should somewhere in the range of 75% Grenache 15% Syrah and the rest a mix of Mourvèdre Cinsualt and Vaccarese with the Grenache aged all in tank and the Syrah and Mourvèdre aged in large barrels. Showing a beautiful perfume of spice laced red fruits licorice and big minerality both the Grenache and Mourvèdre components were brilliantly textured with superb balance fleshy fruit and ample structure on the finish. A year in year out purchase this should drink well for 12-15 years.

A smoking value and a wine that always over delivers, the 2010 Clos Saint Jean Châteauneuf-du-Pape is loaded with kirsch liqueur, herbs de Provence, licorice, and pepper aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, polished, and supple, with gorgeous tannin, good concentration, and an overall silky feel, it drinks well now, but will continue to evolve and show well for over a decade.

(93+) More backwards and concentrated, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape has rocking mid-palate depth and length on the palate. Giving up ample dark fruit, kirsch, pepper, leather and big minerality, this beauty will see its 15th birthday in fine form. 93+ - Jeb Dunnuck