The 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc has turned out brilliantly. Like many of the top 2001s, it exhibits considerable body, loads of perfume, and a bubble gum-like, rich fruitiness displaying hints of honeysuckle and white flowers. With superb texture and fine purity, it is a sumptuous, dry white Chateauneuf du Pape to drink over the next 1-3 years. Many consumers believe these wines will last even longer, but I prefer the fresh fruit present in their youth to the way they behave at age 10 or 15.
Sophie and Catherine must feel some responsibility for carrying on the heritage of the Armenier family, which has been making Chateauneuf du Pape for only 700 years!
Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565