Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine de la Vieille Julienne 2003

The 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape has started to close down after bottling, but there is no doubting its high quality. Inky ruby/purple to the rim with a glorious nose of black cherry liqueur, minerals, and flowers, the wine is full-bodied, surprisingly well-defined despite what Daumen said was virtually no acidity and incredibly high pH, and a monster finish of close to a minute. This is a stunning Chateauneuf du Pape that is playing it close to the vest at the moment, but it is loaded and should emerge from its dormancy in about 2-3 years and drink well for 15-16.