The deep ruby/purple-colored 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape reveals Grenache’s powerful side in its intense kirsch, licorice, peppery aromatics. An opulent attack is followed by a multilayered, full-bodied mid-palate along with considerable structure and headiness in the finish. This is a large-scaled, but impeccably well-balanced Chateauneuf to drink between 2005-2016. One of the appellation’s young, dynamic revolutionaries, Jean-Marc Diffonty, has produced his finest Chateauneuf du Papes to date. Additionally, prices remain modest for what’s in the bottle.Importers: Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173 and Mervyn Hecht Wines, Santa Monica, CA; tel. (408) 685-1148