Domaine des Sénéchaux : Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2010

Dense and sappy, with lots of kirsch, blackberry cobbler, plum paste and braised fig notes, lined with roasted apple wood, black tea and anise. The long finish has ample grip, but it's well-embedded, leaving a concentrated yet polished feel. A strong showing for this quietly improving domaine. Best from 2015 through 2030. 5,000 cases made.

Vivid ruby. Intense raspberry and cherry aromas are given an exotic touch by notes of black tea, smoked meat and dried lavender. Full and plush, with sweet red berry compote flavors and sneaky spiciness. A pliant, polished wine that marries power and finesse, finishing with impressive length and lingering smokiness.

Silky, dense, lush textures, a beautiful purity of fruit with ripe, sweet red and black fruits, and a long, spicy, mouth-filling finish. Consulted by Philippe Cambie.

64% Grenache, 19% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre, 1% Cinsault and 1% Vaccarèse. Intense, smoky-spicy nose, blackcurrant jam, preserved figs, black olives, a hint of undergrowth. Great density and concentration, dark berry jam, pepper and licorice, excellent structure and length, lots of potential. 18+/20

Made from an identical blend, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape is a hedonistic Chateauneuf du Pape fruit bomb. Super-rich with layers of glycerin and fruit, this full-bodied classic smells like a Provencal open-air fruit and vegetable market. Loaded with slightly blacker fruits than its 2011 counterpart, there are also hints of charcuterie, spice box, cedar and Christmas fruitcake in this full-throttle, rich, concentrated wine. Drink it over the next 12–15+ years. This nearly 65-acre estate is owned by the famous and much loved Bordeaux proprietor, Jean-Michel Cazes. To say that he and his family have done a terrific job improving the quality at this estate is an understatement as it has become one of the “go to” wines of the appellation since Cazes purchased the property in late 2006. Their vineyard holdings are located in several top terroirs, particularly Le Grand Pierre, Les Reves and Bois Senechaux. Importer: Verity Wines, New York, NY; tel. (212) 683-8763