2001 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine la Roquette
Deep, intense purple-red, the aromas here exude bold berry fruit, spice and garrigue-like herbs. The palate is rich and layered; an expansive châteauneuf that is not shy of volume, yet despite its evident weight and depth avoids being overtly heady. The lush Grenache-dominant fruit, with freshness and succulence, comes through remarkably well, almost encouraging youthful consumption. Perfectly-balanced and a very fine example from this Brunier-owned property of growing repute.