2003 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Pre-Arrival)
SKU #1123086
97
points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2003 Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape has long been one of the most profound wines of the vintage. It somehow manages to offer the vintage’s character in power, high glycerin, and huge volume, but retains remarkable elegance and finesse that is so much in keeping with the style of Clos des Papes. The wine has a dense ruby/purple-tinged color and a wonderfully sweet nose of framboise, blackberry, and kirsch liqueur intermixed with Chinese black tea and licorice. The wine is full-bodied and voluptuous, but once past all the glycerin and beautiful, dense fruit of this full-bodied wine, there is striking purity, elegance, finesse, and surprising freshness.
(2/ 2006)
97
points
Wine Spectator
Lilting and perfumy, with a grace that belies the vintage, this offers layer upon layer of raspberry, boysenberry, floral, mineral and mocha flavors that glide to a long, silky, refined finish. So seductive, you almost miss how powerful it is--a masterful job of winemaking. Drink now through 2030.
(11/ 2005)
95
points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Dark red. Exotic, even flamboyant on the nose, which displays strong red berry preserve, candied cherry, mineral and floral scents. Round and juicy, with deep red fruit flavors and a strong note of licorice.
(12/ 2008)