A sunshine vintage resulting in early harvesting at the end of August. Reasonably sweet on the nose, with jammy red and black fruit aromas and spice notes. The palate is full-bodied and round with a fine acidity and subtle oak character. Precise, with depth of fruit and well-integrated tannins.

The opaque ruby/purple-colored 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape offers a profoundly sweet perfume of melted licorice, blackberries, and black cherries backed up by loads of glycerin, full body, and moderately high but sweet, well-integrated tannin. There is a seamlessness to the 2000 that will make it accessible early in life, and thus atypical for Beaucastel. The 1985 behaved in this manner when young, but the 2000 possesses even more stuffing. Like its 2001 sibling, it is a classic blend of 30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise, and the balance other permitted varietals. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802

Red-ruby. Roasted aromas of black fruits, leather, maple syrup and mocha. Initially a bit tight on the palate, but showed a lush, seamless texture as it opened in the glass, without losing its definition. Not quite as dense as the 2001 but very full in the mouth, with a higher-pH impression. Finishes very long, with the ripe tannins coating the front teeth.