Tasting Notes: The dark ruby/plum-hued 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape (75% Grenache, 12% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, and the rest Cinsault, Counoise, and Vaccaresecarese) was aged in foudre (60%), demi-muids (20%), and concrete (20%). Abundant aromas of roasted herbs, sweet kirsch liqueur, and dark raspberry fruit are followed by attractive, medium to full-bodied flavors, and soft, silky tannins. It is already delicious. Enjoy it over the next 6-8 years. The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Chante Le Merle Vieilles Vignes is a blend of 84% Grenache, 8% Mourvedre, and 8% Syrah. This cuvee, which has been produced since 1990, is the most concentrated having been aged 60% in foudre, 30% in small barrels, and 10% in cement. It exhibits a dark ruby/purple-tinged color, full body, the tell-tale lavender, kirsch liqueur, raspberry, and loamy/foresty characteristics, and more layers, structure and density than its siblings. Give it 2-3 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 15+ years.