Wine

Super-negociant Alain Corcia has come up with another remarkable series of single cuvée Châteauneuf-du-Papes in 2009, each named after a different member of his family, including this outstanding bottling, named after daughter Julie. Robert Parker gives it 90-92 points in The Wine Advocate, saying it "… has a more saturated ruby/purple color and a big, sweet kiss of blackberry, boysenberry, black cherry, licorice, and camphor. Full-bodied, with unctuosity and some heady alcohol, it displays impressive purity, texture, and depth and should drink well for at least a decade or more."

This utterly charming red Rhône cuvée is from CW's "Man in France," master blender Alain Corcia. Named after Alain's wife Patricia, it is made from old vines grown on the rolling limestone hills of Ventoux, where grape growing has been shown to date back to at least 30 AD.  Made from a traditional Rhône blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Carignan, the 2011 Cuvée Patricia bursts with bright, vibrant notes of black cherry, boysenberry, and framboise, gently seasoned with a hint of new oak from barrel aging. Drink now and over the next 1 to 2 years. -- Ben Giliberti

Pear, lime zest, and apricot blossom aromas awaken the senses. The mid-palate expands into a rich and long finish. Melon and lychee are supported by flinty minerality, making this wine a perfect pairing for spicy dishes.