2005 Domaine La Roquète Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits much more tannin, structure, and a more closed personality than its counterpart in 2006. The wine has a dark ruby/purple-tinged color (darker than the 2006), a rather firm mouthfeel with more animal characteristics, some dark berry fruit, high tannin, medium to full body, and good acidity. This wine needs to be forgotten for 2-3 years and drunk over the following 15. There is no question Daniel Brunier and his brother have been working feverishly to raise the level of quality at Domaine La Roquete. The wines are now being aged 100% in foudre, and the quality has definitely taken a dramatic turn upwards. The brothers have introduced an old vine luxury cuvee, called l’Accent de Roquette, and the estate’s white Chateauneuf du Pape has benefitted from their expertise in vinifying white grapes. Importer: Diageo Chateau Estate Wines, New York, NY; tel. (212) 419-1400

Bright red. Spicy red berry aromas complicated by a subtle tobacco hint. Pure, fresh and racy, with energetic red fruit flavors and a building licorice note. This suave midweight finishes with fine-grained tannins and very good length.