2001 Chateauneuf du Pape

While the 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape shows some bricking at the rim and scents of leather, pepper and soy sauce on first opening, be patient with it. With a bit of time in the glass, it blossoms, transforming into a swirl of pressed flowers and ripe cherries. Full-bodied, rich and still packed with potential at age 20, it finishes silky and long, with echoes of licorice and spice. At least based on this bottle, prospective drinkers will want to consider decanting an hour or so in advance.

A gorgeous wine in every sense, 2001 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape - a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, and 5% Vaccarèse, Counoise, and Muscardin that’s aged for 15 months in old foudres (no new oak is used) – possesses an incredibly complex bouquet of kirsch, black tea, flowers, and licorice like aromas. It opens up beautifully in the glass, showing a seamless, elegant profile, a spectacularly good texture, perfect balance, and a long, silky finish. While this seems to have plenty of life left, I don’t see any reason to hold off as this was a pure joy to drink.