This cuvee, which is also from one of the most revered vineyard sectors of Chateauneuf du Pape, is the 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hautes Brusquieres Cuvee Speciale. This is the essence of Provence with its notes of licorice, black cherry jam, raspberries, and copious Provencal herbs and spices. The wine is medium to full-bodied, deep, opulent, luscious, and accessible now. It should drink well for at least 10-12 years, as it is by far the biggest and deepest of these cuvees. Proprietor Michel Maret makes classic Chateauneuf du Papes that drink well young yet have the ability to age for 10-15 years. His 1998s are just starting to hit their prime. I suspect 2004 will mature more quickly, but his 2005s will be very long-lived wines. The style emphasizes structure, loads of Provencal typicity and impressive purity and overall balance.Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524