2005 Clos des Papes Ch̢teauneuf-du-Pape

A complex nose of resiny pine forest notes intermixed with black raspberry, sweet kirsch, licorice and lavender jumps from the glass of this deep ruby/purple-colored wine. Full-bodied, powerful, rich, and tannic, this wine begs for 4-5 years of bottle age and should keep for 25+ years. In short, you can‰۪t go wrong with either of these vintages, although the 2006 will provide more up-front charm, and the window for drinking it will be just as long as the 2005. Patience will be required for the 2005. (RP)