2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Mourre des Perdrix

A noble Chateauneuf du Pape with a grand cru Burgundy-like aromatic display, the 2001 Mourre des Perdrix possesses a deep ruby/purple color as well as a big, sweet nose that reminded me of a Flagey-Echezeaux. Aromas of raspberries, acacia flowers, and blackberries are followed by a southern Rhone-styled wine possessing large volume as well as a chewy texture. However, there is tremendous elegance and finesse in this full-bodied, precise, fresh, deep, rich, concentrated 2001. Drink this beauty over the next 12-14 years. For statisticians, it comes from a lieu-dit in the northeastern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape, just west of the village of Courthezon. Made from 30-50 year old vines, it is a blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah, and 15% Mourvedre. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524

Dark red. Exotic, floral aromas of cherry, strawberry, mint and nutmeg. Sweet and spicy, with an old-viney creaminess of texture and strong extract. Moderately complex, liqueur-like strawberry and raspberry flavors. Finishes with firm but fine tannins and notes of spice, pepper and licorice.

A noble Chateauneuf du Pape with a grand cru Burgundy-like aromatic display, the 2001 Mourre des Perdrix possesses a deep ruby/purple color as well as a big, sweet nose that reminded me of a Flagey-Echezeaux. Aromas of raspberries, acacia flowers, and blackberries are followed by a southern Rhone-styled wine possessing large volume as well as a chewy texture. However, there is tremendous elegance and finesse in this full-bodied, precise, fresh, deep, rich, concentrated 2001. Drink this beauty over the next 12-14 years. For statisticians, it comes from a lieu-dit in the northeastern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape, just west of the village of Courthezon. Made from 30-50 year old vines, it is a blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah, and 15% Mourvedre. Robert Parker, Wine Advocate # 151 Feb 2004