Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine de la Janasse 2004

The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape, which is 80% Grenache aged in tank or foudre and the rest, Mourvedre and Syrah, aged in small barrels, is a strong effort. Dense ruby/purple with a sweet nose of flowers, blackberries, sweet raspberry liqueur and Provencal herbs, it is dense, rich, medium to full-bodied, but pure, stylish, and delicious already. It should continue to evolve for a dozen or more years.

The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape (80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre) is another outstanding effort from this estate. Loaded with sweet fruit, licorice, blackberry and garrigue, this supple, forward beauty is all about fruit and texture. Complex, mature and ready to go, enjoy bottles over the coming couple of years.