Xavier La Réserve VII IX X Châteauneuf-du-Pape

A new non-vintage wine that's made from a blend of the top barrels of the Cuvee Anonyme from 2007 (43%), 2009 (21%) and 2010 (36%), the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape La Reserve VII IX X is an hedonistic and decadent release that dishes out massive amounts of black raspberry, raspberry, spice cake, licorice and crushed flower like nuances on the nose. Gorgeously full-bodied and textured on the palate, yet with remarkable freshness and purity, this layered, incredible wine should last for 15+ years. Drink now-2028. Score - 96. (Jeb Dunnuck, erobertparker.com, Oct. 2013)