The 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape Tradition (60% Grenache, 35% Syrah, and 5% Mourvedre, aged 65% in concrete tanks, with the Syrah and Mourvedre in barrels) is a beauty for the vintage. Drinkable already, this deep ruby-colored wine exhibits loads of sweet strawberry and black cherry fruit intermixed with licorice, pepper and garrigue. It is medium-bodied, very elegant and up-front. This estate made brilliant 2006s and followed those up with absolutely magnificent 2007s, very strong 2008s, and impressive 2009s. The brilliant southern Rhone winemaking consultant Philippe Cambie must be given a big share of the credit in turning the fortunes of this estate around. This is another of his clients that practices biodynamic farming. (I believe he has at least 30 or more estates in Chateauneuf du Pape following this very strict agricultural practice.) Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565

The deep ruby-colored 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits abundant fruit, garrigue, licorice, and spice characteristics, medium to full body, and surprising concentration for this vintage. (Not yet released)After selling wine to negociants for many years, this estate began to estate bottle in 1998. With the assistance of the brilliant Philippe Cambie, the wines have soared in quality, and Domaine Giraud is now one of the more exciting domaines in Chateauneuf du Pape. They own over 47 acres of vineyards, including the incredible parcel of 100+-year-old vines in a lieu-dit called La Grande Pierre which has sandy soil similar to that at nearby Chateau Rayas. Two of the finest 2008 Chateauneuf du Papes I tasted were produced by proprietors Marie and Francois Giraud.Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565