A sensational effort, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee La Cote Ronde reveals a touch of toasty oak in the aromatics, but it is beautifully integrated with kirsch, roasted Provencal herb, espresso and black currant aromas. This full-throttle, masculine and rich wine possesses sweet tannins as well as good integration of structure and acidity. It is built for the long haul, yet can be drunk in 2-3 years or cellared for two decades. Founded in 1924 by the Autard family, the young generation headed by Paul Autard continues to go from strength to strength, fashioning wines that are modern-styled, yet retain plenty of Provencal authenticity. There 62-acres of vineyards are situated in the commune of Courthezon, in the northeastern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape. Autard’s first attempt at a relatively modern-styled Chateauneuf du Pape was the Cuvee La Cote Ronde, which I believe made its debut in 1998. This is an equal part blend of Grenache and Syrah from 65-year-old vines aged in small oak, of which an elevated percentage is new. Represented by Russell Herman, Berkeley Heights, NJ; tel. (908) 771-9082; various American importers

這款 2010 年初級(jí)的 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee La Cote Ronde 呈墨水色/紫色，嘗起來似乎只陳釀了 3 至 4 個(gè)月，而事實(shí)上已經(jīng)陳釀了 1 年。酒體豐厚，口感集中，尚未成熟，但十分清新，散發(fā)著黑醋栗、黑莓、甘草、樟腦以及森林植被的味道。塵封 4 至 5 年。適飲期：20 年以后。這款 2010 年的酒顏色更深、酸度更高，口感更集中，特點(diǎn)更鮮明。