The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Barberini is rock-solid, with great fruit, medium to full-bodied richness and still noticeable tannic structure that comes through more on the finish. Comprised of 70% Grenache (from the sandy soils of La Crau), 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre, that was aged 16 months in 25% French oak barrels, it exudes thrilling notes of black cherries, currants, sappy underbrush and garrigue on both the nose and palate. Mature, yet still with ample freshness, enjoy it over the coming 5-6 years. Run by the Lancon Family, with the wines now made mostly by Florent Lancon, Domaine de la Solitude covers roughly 35 hectares, all on the La Crau plateau, in the la Solitude lieu-dit.

The two special cuvees are completely different blends, with the 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Barberini a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre. The wine has an opaque purple color, gorgeously dense and intense blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with some licorice, roasted Provencal herbs, and a meatiness. This is smoky, rich, complex, exotic Chateauneuf du Pape that should drink well for 10-15 years. Importer: Langdon Shiverick, Cleveland, OH; tel. (216) 861-6800