More dense and concentrated, the superb 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Du Papet checks in as a blend of 80% Grenache and 10% each of Syrah and Mourvedre. Fermented with close to 70% whole clusters and aged in both concrete and foudres, it exhibits classic black fruits, roasted herbs, black licorice, olive and garrigue to go with full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. Beautifully textured, with solid mid-palate depth, it’s a classic Chateauneuf that will continue to drink nicely for another decade. Made by Thierry Sabon, who started having more and more control since 2001, Clos du Mont-Olivet made classic, age-worthy wines in 2004. While their traditional cuvee is solid, their top cuvee, the Cuvee du Papet, is one of the top wines in the vintage (and I was lucky enough to get to taste – and drink – through multiple bottles for this report).