2005 Domaine Grand Veneur Châteauneuf-du-Pape

A blend of 65% Grenache, 25% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre that's aged both in vat and oak casks. The 2005 Domaine Grand Veneur Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an absolutely stunning wine that has a beautiful opaque, dark burgundy/purple color as well as a killer nose of black raspberries, smoke, raw meat (a la Cuvèe du Vatican), licorice and freshly sharpened pencils. While it is slightly primary, it has all kinds of layers, depth and complexity and with air, subtle herb and spice notes come out. The palate is full bodied with a fabulous, soft, seamless texture, concentrated fruit and surprisingly low acidity (or is it all the ripe fruit that gives this impression...) giving this a more hedonistic feel than most 2005s. Although ripe and lush, it's also balanced and elegant with a long finish where it firms up and shows ripe, sweet tannins. This is modern styled wine with a soft texture and ripe fruit but it doesn't come across as flabby and still has the underlying typicity that should appeal to people who like a more traditionally styled wine.

Inky ruby. Fresh raspberry and cherry preserve aromas are complicated by lavender and rose. Smoky herbs come up with air and carry onto the palate, accenting deep red fruit flavors. Nicely focused wine, with an energetic, tangy finish and good persistence.

Ruby-red. Fresh cherry and blackcurrant aromas perked up by suggestions of five-spice powder and anise. Fleshy and sweet, with good depth to the dark fruit flavors. The long, spicy finish features supple tannins. I suspect that this fruit-driven wine will drink well young.