The ancient vine (primarily Grenache planted in 1902) cuvee, the 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale, displays gorgeous sweetness, a striking minerality, impeccable purity, and a bold, full-bodied, backward, fresh style with abundant concentration, high levels of glycerin, and loads of black cherry fruit intermixed with black currants, raspberries, licorice, and garrigue-like elements. Moderate tannin in the finish suggests patience will be warranted. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2016.