The spectacular 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes is one of the monumental Chateauneuf du Papes of the vintage. A saturated plum/purple color reveals a thick, rich appearance. The wine combines freshness, power, elegance, and great intensity, all wrapped into a full-bodied, concentrated personality with phenomenal persistence on the palate. Remarkably pure, but neither over-done nor over-ripe, this spectacular, youthful Chateauneuf du Pape should hit its prime in 5-6 years, and last for two decades. It is a brilliant tour de force!Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565

Even from magnum, this bottle of 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes seemed a bit past its best. While it still showed some charming notes of leather and dried fruit, the color was bricking and the fine-grained tannins were starting to dry a bit on the otherwise silky finish. Drink up.

Here is a wine that shows the serious side of Chateauneuf. While the fruit is certainly huge, what is equally apparent is the restrained power and the rich, concentrated tannins. This is a style of wine that would appeal to a Zinfandel lover.——R.V.(3/1/2004)—— 94