I offered the little brother last week... then this arrived... the little brother is impressive... making this... well... SUPER!

So... why buy one over the other? They are both spectacular wines... but don't simply buy the Origines because it is "better". Ask yourself when you are going to drink them. I think the "regular" offering will be at its best 2015-2020. The Origines more likely 2020-2025... so, if you plan on drinking earlier, I would say save your $ and get the regular Chateauneuf. It will taste better younger. Make sense?

Additionally, the Origines is aged in 100% new oak, while the regular sees only neutral oak and stainless steel. So, stylistically, they are different as well. If you don't like new oak with your Rhones, then perhaps the Origines is not for you, while the regular will completely blow you away!

Enough already... here's the wines!

I'm putting the regular first, then the new offer after.

Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf du Pape "Regular" 2010 – Sale $44.99 net

90-93 pts Wine Advocate / 90-92 pts Int’l Wine Cellar

Another home run from one of my favorite Rhone producers. Actually, if each year is a home run, then this is a Grand Slam! I’ve had every vintage since 2000, each multiple times, many from 375mls and 1.5 Liters… some at wine dinners where I’ve tasted 8 or so bottles to ensure no corked bottles… in all, I’ve probably tasted/drunk Veneur Chateauneuf at least 60 times. Maybe more.

I’ve not had one that has impressed me as much as this one.

Veneur manages to capture the ripeness of fruit associated with the “modern” style, all while showcasing the unique terroir that is unmistakably Chateauneuf du Pape. 70% Grenache, destemmed and matured in a combination of neutral oak and stainless steel ensures a bright and pure expression of fruit – black cherries and raspberries explode from the glass, swirling with intoxicating floral and spice aromas. Classic Chateauneuf notes of thyme, lavender and sage combine on a smoky, anise laced finish that lingers for nearly a minute.

“Sure, Todd, that’s classic Veneur… what makes this vintage so special to warrant your praise?”

Okay… here’s the thing… the 2010 Veneur is both more powerful and substantial than previous vintages, yet more elegant and refined. Parker picks up on this in his review as well, commenting that the acidity seems higher and the alcohol lower than in 2009. Typically, this reflects a cooler year and results in a more approachable, early drinking style. But 2010 was a fabulous year… and this wine is actually quite a bit tighter and more powerful on the palate than 2009!

This seemingly contradictory nature is nothing of the sort – this 2010 Veneur Chateauneuf simply has everything! Rich, ripe powerful fruit and terroir-laden flavors coupled with fine, firm tannins, all with bright acidity and balanced alcohol. Balance… there’s that word again… it is the hallmark of the truly great wines and winemakers. Sebastian Jaume is certainly elevating his game to be considered one of the best practitioners in the Rhone!

I’ve got a handful of cases arriving this week, with more available to order. Hit reply to order!

“The tight, fresh, lively 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape needs 3-4 years of cellaring (unusual for this cuvee made from 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre). A youthful bouquet of black currants, black cherries, licorice, ink and spice box emerges from this full-bodied, young, primary red. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. The 2010 Grand Veneur Chateauneuf du Papes reveal youthful, crisper, more focused styles than their 2009 counterparts. I suspect their pHs are lower, the total acids slightly higher, and the alcohols perhaps .5 to 1% lower across the board.” WA

“Youthful purple.  Deep, rich nose combines dark fruits, licorice, smoke and a floral element.  Lush, ripe and deep, but with surprising energy to its blackberry and cherry flavors.  Quite powerful for an entry-level wine.  Finishes smooth and long, with a persistent dark berry preserve quality.” IWC

Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf du Pape les Origines 2010 - Sale $54.99

94-96 pts Wine Advocate

(There are only 4 other 2010 CNDP rated as highly that sell for under $60...)

50% Grenache / 20% Syrah / 30% Mourvedre. Aged 18 months in 100% new oak. "The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Origines is nearly off the charts in terms of concentration. It is a less sexy, flamboyant effort compared to the 2009, but it is noble, reserved and pure with plenty of black and blue fruit notes intermixed with subtle garrigue, graphite and spice box characteristics. Full and rich with high tannins, good acidity and a style built for the long term, this 2010 will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring, and keep for at least 20-25 years."