One of the strong efforts, and a potential wine of the vintage, is the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale. An extraordinarily superb expression of kirsch liqueur intermixed with sandy, resiny notes as well as hints of seaweed, garrigue, and pepper, this wine is deep, full-bodied fabulously concentrated, with silky tannins and decent acidity. It’s a beauty and clearly a great example of old-vine Grenache made in unmanipulated, uncompromising fashion. Drink it over the next 15+ years. This staunch traditionalist, who ages everything in old barrels for 16 to 18 months, has turned out absolutely sensational 2007s, and his 2006s are certainly among the strongest wines of the vintage. Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800