Clos Des Papes Chateauneuf Du Pape - 2005 (750ml)

(65% grenache, 20% mourvedre, 10% syrah and the rest "the others") Deep red. Explosively perfumed nose offers a profound bouquet of red and dark berries, licorice, incense and musky underbrush. Broad, palate-staining raspberry and blackcurrant flavors are enveloped in velvety tannins, with suave anise and Asian spices adding complexity. A huge but balanced-even graceful-wine, with a finish that refuses to let go of the palate. This remarkable young Chateauneuf has the sheer sex appeal to enjoy young but also possesses superb cellaring potential. I'd hold mine. -- Josh Raynolds
Vinous - 95 points