2009 Château des Tours Vacqueyras

(80% grenache and 20% syrah): Deep ruby. Extremely primary, pungent aromas of dark berry skin, cherry, licorice and floral oils. Then bright and lively in the mouth, offering intense red and dark fruit flavors and sexy floral pastille and Asian spice qualities. Shows outstanding clarity and intensity on the finish, leaving behind notes of red fruit compote and star anise. As usual, this is one of the best wines from the appellation this year. (JR) Review Date: January 2012

The sensational 2009 Vacqueyras should age as well as its 2004 counterpart, but it is a headier cuvee with relatively high alcohol (probably 15+%). It exhibits abundant notes of kirsch liqueur, licorice and raspberry in addition to a full-bodied style filled with fruit and character. Aged completely in tank, it comes across like a family member of the great Chateau Rayas. This is the home estate of Emmanuel Reynaud, who has been producing the wines of Rayas since 1997. A relatively large estate of nearly 100 acres, Domaine des Tours fashions some remarkable value priced reds and whites. (RP) Review Date: October 2011