Medium red. Soaring aromas of red berries, Asian spices and pungent rose oil. Thick and creamy on the palate, with flavors of kirsch, spicy strawberry and plum jam. This is carrying about 16% alcohol but it's detectible only in a bit of warmth on the finish.

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(cask sample) I found the sweetness of the oak on this a bit disconcerting – almost coconut-like. Very concentrated and my objections may well be simply personal.

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The only special cuvee made in 2003 was Chateauneuf du Pape Les Quartz. This tannic, structured wine is showing toasty new oak, some barrique aging, plenty of cassis and cherries, and moderately high tannins in the long, slightly austere finish. It is a serious wine but needs about 2-3 years of cellaring and should last 12-15 years.

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Plush, velvety texture with layers of cocoa, mocha, black cherry, boysenberry and plum flavors. Plenty of toast, but very creamy for an '03, with a long, fruit-filled finish.

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Dark red with thin and clear legs. Pepper, sweet cherry, some butter, and raspberry aromas. Very nice acidity levels. Velvety tannins turn a bit too prominent at the end. A very smooth and nicely plush Ch?teauneuf that lacks depth. The Les Quartz is primarily Grenache with some Syrah and Mourv?dre blended in.