The 2003 Cuvee Les Gallimardes was missing in action from my tasting, but the regular bottling, the 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape, showed nice plum, cherry, and resiny notes, savory, expensive, fleshy flavors, and low acidity. It is certainly more defined than its rather diffuse showing prior to bottling. Drink it over the next 5-6 years.Importer: Parliament Importing Co., Atlantic City, NJ; tel. (609) 348-1100

With some dense tannins and black bitter chocolate flavors, this sets out to be a wine with ageability. That comes through also in the touch of wood and juicy red fruits. Touches of herbs and spices are already present, but this wine should mature well over 10 years. ——R.V.(12/31/2005)—— 88