2003 Domaine Grand Veneur Châteauneuf-du-Pape

A blockbuster and a terrific example of Chateauneuf du Pape in a more challenging and irregular vintage is the 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape. Deep purple to the rim with a gloriously flamboyant nose of black raspberry jam, kirsch, smoke, and licorice, the wine has dazzling concentration, pushes ripeness to the limit (note the flavors of figs) but pulls back with impressive purity and balance as well as plenty of force and resistance. This is a supple, opulent style of Chateauneuf du Pape to drink over the next decade or more. For the last 7-8 years, this has been one of the best-run estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. Alain Jaume and his two capable sons, Sebastien and Christophe, continue to propel Domaine Grand Veneur into the upper echelon of quality. They also offer an impressively well-made negociant line of wines (under the name Alain Jaume). The hallmarks of the Grand Veneur wines include their extraordinary purity of flavor and impeccable balance. Moreover, they have kept prices remarkably fair. Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel. (540) 722-9228