The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape is a dark ruby color with wonderfully sweet smells of roasted Provencal herbs, black cherry liqueur, tobacco leaf, and spice box. As it sits in the glass, some raspberries also emerge from this lovely, elegant, and seductive wine. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. The renowned wine consultant for the region, Philippe Cambie, consults at Giraud, and of course this usually symbolizes a commitment by the ownership to high quality given Cambie’s extraordinary track record (the Michel Rolland of southern Rhone?). The style at Giraud seems to be one sandwiched between the traditional wines and those that are clearly modern. There is plenty of fruit and always a touch of new oak used for any of the Syrah or Mourvedre components, but the oxidative Grenache is kept in large foudres or tanks. Importer: Parliament Importing Co., Atlantic City, NJ; tel. (609) 348-1100