2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Marquis Tonneaux

Part of this cuvee is aged in used barriques and bottled under the label Chateauneuf du Pape Marquis Tonneaux. The 2001 (70% Grenache and 30% Mourvedre) is not as accessible and up-front as the regular Marquis, being more structured, tannic, and ageworthy. Deep and chewy, it offers intense kirsch liqueur characteristics interwoven with licorice, spice box, Provencal herbs, pepper, and underbrush. Full-bodied and thick, it begs for 2-3 years of cellaring, and should drink well for 12-15 years. Importer: a Patrick Lesec Selection, various American importers, including Stacole Fine Wines, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 998-0039, Classic Wines, Boston, MA; tel. (617) 469-5799; Fine Vines LLC, Maywood, IL; tel. (708) 343-5901; Associated Wine Distributors, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-8048; and Vintage ’59 Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 966-9218

Deep ruby-red. Blackberry, violet and dried herbs on the slightly reduced nose, along with hints of charred meat and fresh blood. Concentrated, dense and chewy, with flavors of violet, game, licorice and cherry skin. Has the material to support the barrel treatment. Finishes with big but sweet tannins and a flavor of charry oak.

Part of this cuvee is aged in used barriques and bottled under the label Chateauneuf du Pape Marquis Tonneaux. The 2001 (70% Grenache and 30% Mourvedre) is not as accessible and up-front as the regular Marquis, being more structured, tannic, and ageworthy. Deep and chewy, it offers intense kirsch liqueur characteristics interwoven with licorice, spice box, Provencal herbs, pepper, and underbrush. Full-bodied and thick, it begs for 2-3 years of cellaring, and should drink well for 12-15 years. Feb 2004, www.robertparker.com