2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Cadettes

This cuvee represents the essence of the appellation, and has considerable potential for longevity. The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Cadettes is a blend of 38% Syrah, 35% Grenache, and 27% Mourvedre. This blend was modified from the core blend I tasted last year, and includes the highest percentage of Syrah used in any Cuvee des Cadettes to date. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a sweet, concentrated, opulent style with plenty of power, loads of sweet blackberry liqueur notes and a touch of vanilla in the background. Sweet, chewy, plush, sexy, and voluptuous, it may not be the longest-lived example, but it is undeniably charming and disarming. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2016. Feb 2003, www.robertparker.com