The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape displays plenty of garrigue, ground pepper, black cherry jam, spice, and earth characteristics. It is a fresh, medium to full-bodied effort revealing slightly higher acidity than its 2006 counterpart, but also a more compact, structured style, even though it is accessible. Drink it over the next 10-12 years. One of the Rhone’s most exceptional wine consultants, Philippe Cambie, assists at this serious estate, which has been coming on strong over recent vintages. In fact, 2005 and 2006 may be their finest back-to-back years to date. Proprietors Francois and Marie Giraud produce three cuvees, all of which merit interest in both of these vintages.Importer: Parliament Importing Co., Atlantic City, NJ; tel. (609) 348-1100

Strongly perfumed with herbs and flowers. Unusual, attractive, very Provencal. Typical of vintage. Appealing perfumed quality.