2009 Les Cailloux Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Robert Parker:

The Les Cailloux 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape (70% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and the rest Syrah and other permitted grape varieties) may be the finest regular cuvee produced at this estate, even eclipsing the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape. A beautiful deep, plum/garnet color is followed by notes of ripe figs, licorice, tobacco leaf, sweet herbs, pepper and sumptuous quantities of kirsch and blacker fruits. Intense and full-bodied with silky tannins as well as a plump, sexy, voluptuous style, it begs for consumption now and over the next 10-15 years. 95 points

Robert Parker:

The Les Cailloux 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape (no Cuvee Centenaire was produced in 2008 or 2009) exhibits a dense purple color as well as sweet black currant and kirsch liqueur notes intermixed with spice box, Christmas fruitcake, cedar and garrigue. There is good sweet fruit on the attack, medium body and elevated tannins that give the wine a more structured, masculine feel. This 2009 will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and should drink well for 10-15 years thereafter. 91-93 points