2009 Domaine Vieille Julienne "Reserve" Chateauneuf du Pape (scuffed label)

97 Points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve, which was made from frighteningly low yields, has a whopping 16.5% alcohol, compared to the 2010's 16.4, yet it is not even noticeable, given the luxurious concentration and extraordinary depth and richness this wine possesses. A phenomenal example of opulence, super concentration, old vine viticulture, and impeccable winemaking, this black/blue/purple wine displays notes of spring flowers, graphite, blueberries, blackberries, licorice and some charcoal notes, even though it is aged totally in old wood foudres. Given its opulence, it can be drunk relatively early on, but this wine will keep for15-20 years, based on how slowly vintages such as 1999 and 2000 are aging." (10/30/2011)

96 Points from Jeb Dunnuck: "Made from a single, sandy plot of old vines, and only in vintages where there is a distinct difference from the rest of the estate, the 2009 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Châteauneuf-du-Pape Reserve is a blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah that’s aged all in foudre. It possesses a deep purple color to go with striking aromas of cassis and blacker styled fruits, creamy licorice, violets, graphite, and underbrush like qualities on the nose. This opens in the glass, showing brilliant complexity as well as a fresh, pure profile. Full-bodied on the palate with a thick, decadent texture, serious concentration, superb balance, and loads of ripe tannin on the finish, this serious, beautifully put together ’09 should benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age, and drink well for 15-20." (9/25/11)

94 Points Vinous: "Glass-staining purple. High-pitched, spicy aromas of raspberry liqueur, potpourri, garrigue and white pepper. At once deep and lively, with impressive energy and silky texture to the sweet red fruit and floral pastille flavors. The spicy quality carries through on the tactile, palate-staining finish." (1/2012)