This cuvee represents the essence of the appellation, and has considerable potential for longevity. The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Cadettes is a blend of 38% Syrah, 35% Grenache, and 27% Mourvedre. This blend was modified from the core blend I tasted last year, and includes the highest percentage of Syrah used in any Cuvee des Cadettes to date. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a sweet, concentrated, opulent style with plenty of power, loads of sweet blackberry liqueur notes and a touch of vanilla in the background. Sweet, chewy, plush, sexy, and voluptuous, it may not be the longest-lived example, but it is undeniably charming and disarming. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2016. Importer: Clicquot Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 888-7575

Right now, this wine tastes like a somewhat generic red wine--albeit one with excellent balance, fine oaking and impressive concentration and length. Cedary, vanilla notes from new oak barrels need some time to integrate with the rich black cherry fruit and allow the true flavors of Chateauneuf to shine. Drink 2008–2015.——J.C.(2/1/2005)—— 91