The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape displays classic kirsch liqueur notes along with raspberry and loamy soil in a medium to full-bodied, lush, up-front and relatively evolved style. Drink it over the next 6-7 years. Proprietor Michel Maret makes classic Chateauneuf du Papes that drink well young yet have the ability to age for 10-15 years. His 1998s are just starting to hit their prime. I suspect 2004 will mature more quickly, but his 2005s will be very long-lived wines. The style emphasizes structure, loads of Provencal typicity and impressive purity and overall balance.Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524