2000 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine la Roquette
Roquette should not be thought of as a second wine, it is a domaine in its own right, different to Vieux-Télégraphe due to its varied vineyard sites. The 2000 leaps from the glass with expressive garrigue herb, red fruit, clove and chocolate aromas. These characters are brought through onto the medium weight palate, and combine with fine ripe tannins and a touch of dry spice due to a higher percentage of Syrah. The finish lasts for several seconds, and the 14% alcohol, far from overshadowing the fruit, acts to lift it from the glass. Delicious now and till 2013+.