The soft, round, fruity 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits herb, licorice, black raspberry, kirsch, damp earth and spice notes. It requires consumption over the next 5-6 years. The Richard family, who acquired this true chateau and great estate in 1985, has done a fabulous job in making it a reference point for Chateauneuf du Pape. The long-time administrator, Alain Dugas, has retired, turning over the reins to Christian Voeux. La Nerthe’s white wines are spectacular, and their luxury cuvee called Clos de Beauvenir is one of the great dry whites of the Rhone Valley. Both Christian Voeux and Alain Dugas told me their 2009 reds had the highest level of tannins they had ever measured. I did not notice this from the way the wines tasted given the seductiveness and richness of their fruit. Importer: Clicquot Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 888-7575