The top selection is the 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Speciale, which is 100% old vine Grenache. It offers abundant aromas of kirsch liqueur, incense, and spice in an impressively endowed, rich, medium to full-bodied style that should evolve easily for a decade. Yields were a minuscule 18 hectoliters per hectare, which explains the wine’s high level of concentration.(Not yet released)Previously recommended in issue #179, but not tasted out of bottle: 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Speciale (94-95), 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (92-94), 2007 Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Speciale (91-93), 2007 Cotes du Rhone y Louis (91-93)Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

Made solely from old-vine Grenache, this stands out as a horse of a different color in a flight of traditional Chateauneuf-du-Papes. It does boast a lovely suppleness and silky texture, but the aromas and flavors are strange—a sort of medicinal cherry meets boiled vegetables.——J.C.(8/1/2011)—— 84