2000 Chateauneuf du Pape

The 2000 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Châteauneuf-du-Pape is fantastic with rich, complex aromatics of plum and cassis fruit, star anise, leather and earthy, big garrigue notes on the nose. It is ripe but stops short of hitting the roasted spectrum and shows nice complexity paired with big, ripe fruit. The palate is full bodied with nice sweetness, a rich, savory texture and nice length on the finish. Beautifully mature and integrated, this is certainly in its drinking window and should hold for some time.

The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (15% alcohol) emerges from a cold terroir in the northern sector of the appellation. The blend is generally 85% Grenache and equal parts Syrah and Mourvedre. Its opaque purple color is followed by a sumptuous perfume of creme de cassis, kirsch liqueur, licorice, plums, minerals, and smoke. Mammoth in the mouth, but surprisingly structured and tannic for a 2000, it is more evolved than its 2001 counterpart. This profound Chateauneuf should evolve slowly and age magnificently for two decades. It is a monumental effort, but patience will be a virtue. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025. Kudos to winemaker/proprietor Jean-Paul Dauman for this masterpiece! Importer: A Christopher Cannan Selection, various American importers, including: Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300 and Diamond Wine Merchant, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 567-9897. A note of caution: Grey market prices for these wines are 3-5 times higher than those asked by the authorized distributor.

The stunning 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape (14.5% alcohol) boasts a dark ruby/purple color as well as a super bouquet of sweet plums, figs, kirsch liqueur, and pepper. Layered, heady, and full-bodied, this hedonistic and intellectual turn-on can be drunk now as well as over the next 12-15 years. Feb 2003, www.robertparker.com