Xavier Vignon Vacqueyras 2009 is made from 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah Tasting Notes: Purple and ruby notes. Fine and silky nose with subtle notes of raspberry, liquorice and vanilla. Great structure, flexible and round tannins, pleasant smooth, long finish. Review: The stunningly rich 2009 Vacqueyras (40% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 20% Mourvedre) exhibits full-bodied power as well as wonderful creme de cassis, kirsch, licorice, incense and truffle notes, a big, full-bodied, opulent mouthfeel and a multilayered, long finish. It should drink well for 7-10 years. I visited the three owners of Xavier Vins, the young oenologist, Xavier Vignon, who is the brain trust behind so many of the wines, and his two partners. This relatively youthful, serious negociant company has been doing some extraordinary consulting work in Chateauneuf du Pape, working for such estates as Raymond Usseglio, La Gardine, Jerome Quiot, Beaurenard, La Nerthe, Mont Redon, Maucoil, Roger Perrin, Chateau Marcoux and Domaine Grand Veneur. They access gorgeous fruit from many different appellations and are doing a top-flight job of getting impressive quality into the bottle. Moreover, there are some top values in their portfolio as well. -Robert Parker 91-