Coteaux du Languedoc Cante Lebre, Château Puech-Haut 2009

Getting a big "Wow" in my notes and one of the most southern Rhone-like in the lineup, the 2009 Coteaux du Languedoc Saint Drezery Cante Lebre is a spectacular blend of mostly Grenache (aged in tank), with smaller components of Syrah and Mourvedre that were aged all in new oak barrels (of which the wine shows no trace). In addition, this cuvee wasn't made in 2011, with the bulk of the juice going into the Tete de Belier bottling. Gorgeous all around, with ample blackberry, kirsch, spice box, garrigue and melted licorice notes, it flows onto the palate with a full-bodied, decadent and hedonistically styled profile that never puts a foot wrong. Staying lively, fresh and balanced (which is remarkable for a wine of this size), it is a joy to drink and absolutely hard to resist. Count me a fan. It should continue to thrill over the coming 5-8 years.