A big, ripe and exuberant wine, the 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape offers lots of plum and purple fruits, licorice, spice and hints of meatiness on the nose. Full-bodied, voluptuously textured and with lots of fruit, it has a slightly dry edge to the tannin so drink up.

The 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits a deep plum/ruby/purple hue as well as fresh, lively, peppery, floral aromas interwoven with scents of garrigue, blueberries, cherries, and earth. Medium to full-bodied with moderate tannin, it should drink well for a decade. Importer: A Christopher Cannan Selection, various American importers including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Diamond Wine Merchants, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 567-9897 and JAO Wine Imports, McLean, Va; tel (703) 628-9615

This is the best Cristia since Baptiste Grangeon took over the estate in 1999. It has great tannic structure, a hint of wood and lovely, juicy red fruit flavors. It will develop relatively quickly, over 5 years. Imported by World Shippers & Importers Co. ——R.V.(12/31/2005)—— 89