2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Papet

The 2003 Clos du Mont Olivet Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Cuvée du Papet boasts a big, earthy, traditional nose with garrigue, spice and new leather notes that are supported by a solid core of sweet fruit. This leads into a medium to full bodied palate that has nice richness, balance and lift. The finish is long and right after opening, finishes with gobs of drying tannin. With air, this abated and the tannins were notably sweeter but this might be something to watch.

Soy, dried herbs, roasted meat, sweet cherries, and some blacker fruits make an appearance in the dark ruby 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Papet. Full-bodied, dense, with low acidity, velvety tannin, and an opulent, full-bodied personality, it should be drunk over the next 12-15 years. Importers: David Hinkle, North Berkeley Imports, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 336-9880 and Ideal Wines, Medford, MA; tel. (617) 395-3300

Medium red color. Intense, floral aromas of bitter cherry, rose, violet, tarragon and espresso. Offers an elegant texture, especially for the year, with a spicy, vibrant quality to the dark berry and cherry fruit flavors. The grenache vines here are over 100 years old. Spicy and concentrated on the long, suave finish.