Less aromatic than the classic cuvee, yet deeper, richer and more concentrated, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvée des Félix is also tannic and structured, with killer notes of singed Provencal herbs, saddle leather, chocolaty dark fruits and licorice. Tasting like the essence of Provence, drink this thick, unctuous beauty over the coming 10-15 years.

Made from 90+-year-old vines, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Felix (65% Grenache, 25% Mourvedre, 5% Syrah, and 5% other authorized grapes) spent 18 months in small used oak barrels. It reveals beautiful sweet cranberry, black cherry, black raspberry, pepper, spice, licorice, and incense characteristics. Full-bodied as well as elegant with silky tannins and a luscious, multilayered texture, it can be drunk now or cellared for 12-15+ years. The Versino family is another that immigrated from Italy to Chateauneuf du Pape. The current proprietor, Jean-Paul Versino, has produced a bevy of beautiful wines from the Bois de Boursan’s 40+ acres of vineyards. In 2008, none of the special cuvees were made.Importer: J & R Selections, Lansing, MI; tel. (517) 772-3695, Arbor Way Imports, Boston, MA; tel. (71) 863-1753; and Louis/Dressner, New York, NY; tel. (212) 334-8191