Cuvee du Vatican Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve Sixtine 2003

"The brilliant 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Sixtine is a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre, and the rest various red varietals. Aged in both barrel (30% new) and foudre, it represents approximately one-fourth of the vintage's production, or roughly 2,000 cases. Yields averaged 17-25 hectoliters per hectare. The 2003 is an atypically powerful, concentrated effort that tips the scales at 15.7% alcohol. It boasts a dense purple color as well as copious quantities of black raspberries, cherries, cassis, licorice, smoke, scorched earth, and hints of Provencal herbs as well as subtle wood. This broad, substantial, powerful effort possesses fabulous concentration and awesome potential. It will not be one of the 2003 Chateauneuf du Papes to drink in its youth. Even though it has low acidity, there is tremendous tannin as well as extract. Give it 4-5 years of cellaring; it should keep for 16-18 years."
-Wine Advocate 93-96 Points