2010 Domaine de Saint Siffrein Châteauneuf-du-Pape
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From Jon Rimmerman / Garagiste:
The hype over 2010 Chateauneuf-du-Pape is real. I am here, in Avignon, and the exuberance over the vintage is uniform throughout north, south east and west. James Molesworth’s comments (and scores) of late have only stoked the flames of a market already panting for as many bottles of 2010 CdP as they can grey market. Of the 20 or so vintners I’ve talked to, only two of them said it wasn’t the best vintage of the last 20 years (and they said second or third best). In other words, 2010 is not only worth your time and attention, it is worth far more than that – precious real estate in your cellar and the resources to fully stock it (likewise with 2010 Burgundy).
As I’ve penned (ad nauseum) over the last year, from the first tastings to the last, it’s been evident the vintage has a sparkle and freshness that binds itself to surreal aromatics, gritty tannins and must-weight density normally reserved for overwrought years...but 2010 is anything but.
It is classic, elevated and balanced like few vintages this region has ever seen and the word “carnival” is nowhere in sight (a la 2007). Maybe carnivorebut never carnival.
So, the good fortune of a little ring in my ear this morning, politely inquiring if I would like the last of the 2010 (for you) before it is shipped off to any number of new sources scrambling to jump on board the 2010 gravy train, was unexpected but welcomed with open arms.
I said oui without hesitation.
Yes, the price is up a bit but it’s still at a ridiculous tariff for the quality.
Like the first go-round, this wine has been bottled from the finest traditional/certified organic material Siffrein has in their cellar and it should age for years (while they do not publicize it, Siffrein is 100% certified organic):
Parker: “This low-profile, superb, organically run Chateauneuf du Pape estate has long been owned by the Chastan family, who has about 35 acres of vines, all located in the northernmost sector of the appellation in two highly respected lieux-dits, Palestor and Cabrieres. The gorgeous 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits smoked herb, kirsch, cassis and licorice characteristics, a tremendously layered, opulent mouthfeel, outstanding concentration and a voluptuous, long finish. It is another hedonistic, full throttle Chateauneuf to drink over the next 12-15+ years. 92-94pts”