Domaine Paul Autard Châteauneuf-du-Pape

This delivers a very large core of crushed currant, plum and blackberry fruit, all held in check by hints of maduro tobacco, bittersweet ganache, black tea and graphite. The long finish has ample grip, lending further length and definition to the impressive range of fruit. Best from 2010 through 2025.

A sleeper of the vintage, the deep ruby/purple-hued 2007 Châteauneuf de Pape, a blend of 70% Grenache and the rest equal parts Syrah and Counoise, exhibits gorgeously plump, sexy aromas of red and black fruits, licorice, smoke, Provençal herbs, and flowers. Full-bodied, opulent, and voluptuous, it is an endearing, exuberant, flashy Châteauneuf that tastes like the bottles essence of Provence. Drink it now and over the next 10–12 years.

The opaque ruby/purple-colored 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape offers up beautiful, sweet black raspberry and kirsch fruit, tremendous opulence, and a sexy, gamy character. Layered, sumptuous, and long in the mouth with excellent purity and freshness, it should drink effortlessly for 10–15 years.

Inky ruby. Exotically perfumed nose displays cherry, dark berries, musky herbs and incense, plus a suave mineral undertone. Firm and vibrant, with no excess fat and vivid red and dark fruit flavors. Gains weight, flesh and deeper dark berry flavors on the finish, which leaves behind bitter cherry and licorice notes. Pretty serious, and built to age.