The 2007 Lirac Clos de Sixte is composed of 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah, and 15% Mourvedre. Abundant licorice, graphite, black cherry, and blackberry characteristics are offered in a full-bodied, deep, fleshy style. Liracs generally do not age as long as Chateauneuf du Papes, but this effort is capable of lasting 5-7 years where well-stored as it is a big, impressively endowed wine.This is one of the most ambitious estates as well as burgeoning negociant operations in Chateauneuf du Pape. The two Jaume brothers, Sebastien and Christophe, continue to ratchet up the level of quality with a bevy of brilliant Chateauneuf du Papes and for bargain hunters, some top-flight offerings that include generic Cotes du Rhones as well as Cotes du Rhone-Villages. They also produce an impressive Gigondas. The estate wines, bottled under the name Domaine Grand Veneur, include two of the finest white Chateauneuf du Papes of the village (they own 5 acres of white grapes, a relatively large amount when only 3-4% of the appellation's production is in white wine).Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel. (540) 722-9228

Intense gamy, woodsy, black olive aromas with notes of loganberry, sloe, blackberry and a hint of smoke. Powerful and full-bodied, richly textured with firm tannins but fresh and vibrant across the palate. Very flavorful with layers of black cherry-berry fruit, wild plums, savory meaty notes——W.E.(10/15/2010)—— 90