The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape (80% Grenache and the rest Mourvedre, Syrah and Cinsault aged in cement) exhibits damp earth, smoky Provencal herb, pepper, kirsch and black currant notes. Lusty and heady with lots of spice, this is a fragrant wine with an unctuous texture and a luscious, full-bodied mouthfeel. Drink it over the next decade.
Now that son Vincent Durieu is in full charge, Domaine Durieu has become one of the up-and-coming superstar estates of Chateauneuf du Pape. Lovers of these wines need to pay more attention as prices have remained reasonable. 2010 is another blockbuster vintage for Vincent Durieu.
A Jack Siler Selection, Springfield, VA; tel. (703) 644-5210; various American importers, including Route des Vins Imports, LLC, Charleston, SC; tel. (843) 737-0301