The 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape is a sexy, medium to full-bodied effort with far more depth, richness and seductive powers than most Chateauneuf du Papes in this vintage. A classic blend of 85% Grenache and the rest equal parts Mourvedre, Syrah and Vaccarese has resulted in a deep plum/ruby-hued 2008 displaying loads of kirsch, pepper and licorice notes. The fruit is sweet, the tannins silky and the wine very seductive and evolved. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. One of the most intelligent young Chateauneuf du Pape turks is Laurent Charvin. As I have written before, consumers are lucky that the entire production here is now estate bottled as opposed to being sold to negociants as it was prior to 1990. I always find Charvin’s wines come closest to those of Chateau Rayas, although the Charvin cuvees are slightly more concentrated. Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800