96 Point Wine Advocate: The 2010 Chateau Sixtine Chateauneuf du Pape performed exquisitely and, again, was one of the top wines of the vintage. With better integration of the new oak than I have previously seen from Jean-Marc Diffonty, this wine's opaque ruby/purple color possesses lots of licorice, asphalt, graphite, blackberry and kirsch notes as well as hints of lavender, forest floor and garrigue. This opulent, full-bodied effort is approachable, but it will not hit its full stride for another 2-4 years. It should drink well for 15-20 years thereafter.
I'm sure this is an excellent wine but I'm not touching mine for at least a couple of years...JRH
Wine Review Glass-staining ruby. An explosively perfumed bouquet evokes dark berry preserves, incense, licorice and candied flowers. Stains the palate with sweet, pliant blackberry and cassis flavors. Closes on a sappy note, with resonating spiciness and lingering dark berry qualities. Note the name change from 'Reserve Sixtine' to 'Chateau Sixtine' that will take place as of the 2010 vintage.
Technical Notes When it comes to wine, France stands alone. No other country can beat it in terms of quality and diversity. And while many of its Region, Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne most obviously, produce wine as rare, as sought-after and nearly as expensive as gold, there are just as many obscurities and values to be had from little known appellations throughout the country. To learn everything there is to know about French wine would take a lifetime. To understand and appreciate French wine, one only has to begin tasting them.