Grenache is the king on the plateau of this sun-baked appellation. The outstanding 2003 Vacqueyras, which has a deep ruby/purple-tinged color, is a big, full-bodied, full-throttle wine with plenty of black fruits, melted licorice, some roasted meat notes, full body, a layered texture, and terrific mouthfeel and opulence. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. For the last 7-8 years, this has been one of the best-run estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. Alain Jaume and his two capable sons, Sebastien and Christophe, continue to propel Domaine Grand Veneur into the upper echelon of quality. They also offer an impressively well-made negociant line of wines (under the name Alain Jaume). The hallmarks of the Grand Veneur wines include their extraordinary purity of flavor and impeccable balance. Moreover, they have kept prices remarkably fair.Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel. (540) 722-9228