2001 Chapoutier Collection (1999 VDF Coufis, 2010 Ermitage Vin de Paille)

The profound 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as a nose of garrigue, licorice, kirsch liqueur, cassis, and new saddle leather. This superbly concentrated, full-bodied, multidimensional wine coats the palate with glycerin and sweet fruit. There is not a hard edge to be found, but wow, what intensity and length (the finish lasts for close to one minute). The 2001 should turn out to be a legendary effort capable of lasting 15-20 years. Importer: Paterno Imports, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900

Good medium red. Brooding aromas of redcurrant liqueur, minerals, dried flowers and garrigue Dense, superconcentrated and powerful, with terrific structure and the sheer material to buffer the 15. 5% alcohol. Intensely spicy, elegant Chateauneuf, with very suave tannins and superb persistence.

The profound 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as a nose of garrigue, licorice, kirsch liqueur, cassis, and new saddle leather. This superbly concentrated, full-bodied, multidimensional wine coats the palate with glycerin and sweet fruit. There is not a hard edge to be found, but wow, what intensity and length (the finish lasts for close to one minute). The 2001 should turn out to be a legendary effort capable of lasting 15-20 years. Feb 2004, www.robertparker.com