CDP Senechaux, Domaine des Sénéchaux 2009

The sexy, full-bodied, dense garnet-colored 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape reveals abundant aromas of kirsch, plums, figs and black fruits, a lavish texture, an opulent mouthfeel and a long finish. There is not a hard edge to be found in this silky Chateauneuf. Drink it over the next decade.

A pretty good-sized estate of just under 64 acres, they have made only one cuvee of red Chateauneuf du Pape so far, and in 2009 it is a stunning wine. A blend of 64% Grenache, nearly 20% Syrah, and the rest Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Vaccarese, aged in a combination of oak foudres and one- to two-year-old used barrels, this deep, full-bodied wine displays a dense plum/purple color as well as a beautiful nose of crushed black raspberries and cherry jam intermixed with licorice, incense, garrigue and Christmas fruitcake. Peppery and spicy, elegant yet powerful, this is a beautiful combination of power and finesse.