CDP Croix de Bois, Maison M. Chapoutier 2001

The 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois is among the finest efforts Chapoutier has yet produced of this single vineyard offering (it debuted in 1998). A deep, saturated ruby/purple color is followed by a gorgeous perfume of black cherries macerated in brandy, intermixed with that Provencal melange of herbs, earth, and spice box. Notes of Havana tobacco intertwined with licorice, roasted meats, and sweet cherry and cassis fruit ooze across the palate with no sense of heaviness, despite what must be close to 15.5% alcohol. The sweetness of the glycerin and sensational tactile impression make for a monumental taste of Chateauneuf du Pape. It should drink well for 20 years.