($33, Vineyard Brands): Powerful, yes, but it’s this wine’s refinement that shows why Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the southern Rhone’s most well-known appellation.  A beautiful minerality and floral components harmonize effortlessly with spicy nuances.  Though made from the usual blend of Mediterranean grapes, this wine has a gracefulness not usually associated with the southern Rhône that makes it enjoyable to drink now. 90 Michael Apstein Feb 5, 2008