2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois

Vivid ruby-red. Sexy red fruit liqueur, potpourri and Asian spice aromas show impressive power and an energetic, pinot-like character. Sappy, tangy and precise on the palate, displaying lively raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a touch of spicecake. Closes on a mineral note, with superb clarity, verve and length.

With more richness and depth, and showing the classic fruit-forward and up-front profile of the terroir, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois is 100% Grenache that comes from the southeastern part of the appellation. Loaded with notions of strawberries, kirsch, underbrush and garrigue, it has medium to full-bodied richness with a supple, fleshy and hedonistically styled feel on the palate. As with the La Bernardine, I don’t see this making old bones, yet it should provide ample pleasure for upward of a decade. Drink now-2021. While more known for his top-flight Northern Rhone efforts, Michel Chapoutier produces a bevy of brilliant Chateauneuf du Papes, as well as a number of high quality, value-priced wines from throughout the Southern Rhone (and Languedoc).Looking first at his Marius wines, these are straightforward, yet impressively made wines that offer easy-drinking. They also sell for a song and over-deliver. As to his Chateauneufs, he normally releases three cuvees, the La Bernardine being a blend and the Croix de Bois and Barbe Rac both single vineyard, 100% Grenache releases. Both 2011 and 2012 are strong here. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900

Bright ruby. High-pitched red berry and floral aromas show very good intensity and a sexy spicecake nuance. Juicy, penetrating and seamless, offering vibrant raspberry and cherry flavors lifted by tangy acidity. Finishes lively and long, with resonating spiciness.