96-99

Josh Raynolds

Vinous

Deep red. Stunningly aromatic nose offers a kaleidoscopic array of fresh and dried floral scents, red and dark berry tones and minerals. The nose seemed to expand with air, taking on depth and power: I thought I could taste the bouquet! Lush, concentrated and sweet, with a panoply of dark cherry and berry flavors, velvety tannins and a bright spicy character on the back. The finish boasts a palate-staining persistence that's simply uncanny. I wonder which of my daughters I should trade for some of this.

99

Jeb Dunnuck

Robert Parker/Wine Advocate

The 2005 Marcoux Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is a rock star that’s up with the top 2-3 wines of the vintage. Perfumed, complex and brilliantly Provencal, with sweet kirsch, pepper, crushed flowers and dried earth, it’s full-bodied, seamless and silky on the palate, with no hard edges and incredible length. Opening up in the glass, drink this heavenly Châteauneuf anytime over the coming decade or more.