Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Clos du Marquis opens with medicinal, cherry cough syrup scents followed by a core of plum preserves and crème de cassis plus a touch of wild sage. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is coated with maturing black fruits and dried mint flavors, framed by chewy tannins and finishing with a refreshing lift.
It possesses the aromatics of the Pertuisots married to the darker expression of fruit found in the Bressandes. Polished, refined tannins frame the finish in a striking wine that captures all of the best qualities of the domaine.
While the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reserve has never been my favorite vintage from Laurence, it nevertheless showed nicely on this occasion with classic Pegau notes of tapenade, garrigue and spiced meats flowing to a medium to full-bodied, supple, sexy wine that will continue to evolve gracefully for another decade.
It exhibits a dense plum/purple color along with a big, sweet bouquet of beef blood, grilled herbs, barbecue smoke, lavender, sweet cassis and kirsch and a hint of Asian soy. The wine possesses a fabulous texture, a full-bodied mouthfeel and a seamless integration of tannin, acidity and alcohol.