Slightly richer, the 2010 Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Speciale (100% Grenache, 100% stems included) is made from a vineyard just north of Courthezon in Chateauneuf du Pape. While the 2009 was outstanding, the 2010 is slightly more restrained and less extravagant. Licorice, acacia flowers, kirsch and black currant characteristics are present in this medium-bodied, elegant, pure wine. Enjoy it over the next 4-5 years. (Not yet released)Michel Tardieu has excellent relationships with many growers in the southern Rhone, which is reflected in the quality of his three cuvees of Cotes du Rhone as well as what he accomplishes in Rasteau, Vacqueyras, Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape. He normally makes three cuvees of Chateauneuf du Pape, but I only tasted two on my recent visit.Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

The 2009 Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Speciale is cropped from 15 hectoliters per hectare, and is made with 100% stems from a vineyard just across the appellation border in Chateauneuf du Pape near Courthezon. Aged in tank, this is a fabulous sleeper of the vintage. Tasting more like a Chateauneuf du Pape than a Cotes du Rhone, the wine cuts a broad swath across the palate, with lots of garrigue, kirsch liqueur, new saddle leather, and gamey, smoky meats and herbs. Full-bodied, complex, super-flavorful, and ideal for drinking over the next 5-10 years. Sadly, only 1,000 cases were made of this wine. (Not yet released)Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

A stunning effort, the 2007 Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Speciale was fashioned from 80-year old Grenache vines planted in the Coudoulet section, adjacent to Chateauneuf du Pape. It exhibits classic aromas of melted licorice and kirsch liqueur, full-bodied power, impressive concentration, and a layered texture. A traditionally-styled southern Rhone that tastes more like a Chateauneuf du Pape than a Cotes du Rhone, it should drink nicely for a decade or more. This wine is a super bargain. This partial look at the Tardieu-Laurent portfolio concentrates on the value-priced offerings from the southern Rhone. Michel Tardieu’s Chateauneuf du Papes were reviewed in issue #179.Importer: Wilson Daniels Ltd., St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661