As with many Chateauneuf du Pape estates in 2003, there is a dramatic drop in quality between their Cotes du Rhone and Chateauneuf du Pape offerings. This is particularly evident with Chateau Maucoil’s light-bodied, easygoing, soft, flabby, but pleasant 2003 Cotes du Rhone. Consume it during its first year of life. An Alain Corcia Selection, various American importers, including Charmer Industries, NY; tel. (718) 726-2500, Southern Wine and Spirits, CA; tel. (510) 487-3332, Premier Wines, CA; tel. (510) 237-6284, and Calvert Woodley Wines, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 966-4400

A good value, the bottled 2000 Cotes du Rhone exhibits copious quantities of sweet cherry fruit and peppery notes presented in an uncomplicated, quaffable, fleshy style. With admirable levels of glycerin as well as alcohol, it should be consumed over the next 1-2 years. Note: This cuvee is bottled with no fining or filtration for the American market by French wine broker Alain Corcia. Tasting the 1999 cuvees for sale in Europe and elsewhere revealed wines meriting 2-3 points lower, providing further evidence that unfiltered wines possess more bouquet, texture, and flavor. An Alain Corcia Selection, various American importers, including Charmer Industries, NY; tel. (718) 726-2500, Southern Wine and Spirits, CA; tel. (510) 487-3332, Premier Wines, CA; tel. (510) 237-6284, and Calvert Woodley Wines, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 966-4400