Bright ruby-red. Syrupy-sweet but subdued nose hints at red berry liqueur. Thick, supersweet and silky, with a flavor of red cherry jam. Still a bit unformed and not yet showing much complexity, but this has superb volume and solid supporting acidity. Finishes very long, with even sweeter tannins than the regular bottling. I'd enjoy the basic bottling over the short to medium term, and hold this for a good four or five years.

Very good is the 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes. Its dark ruby color with notions of pink at the rim is followed by a striking bouquet of violets intermixed with blackberry jam, licorice, and tapenade. This full-bodied, expansive, concentrated, spicy wine is dazzling stuff. Anticipated maturity: now-2016.