More complete and denser, but just as charming as its 2006 counterpart, the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits a deep ruby hue, and a fleshy, medium to full-bodied personality filled with black fruits intermixed with hints of licorice, herbs, and lavender. A spicy wine with fine length, it is surprisingly approachable for a 2005. Drink it over the next decade. This estate, which has top-notch vineyard sites (some 1983s in my cellar are still drinking beautifully), has come back strong after a period of producing “bretty,” irregular wines. Importer: Jack Siler Selections, Springfield, VA; tel. (703) 644-5210