Domaine Jean Deydier et Fils Les Clefs d'Or Chateauneuf du Pape, 2000

I was disappointed with this wine a few months ago, perhaps because it was tasted in the company of other very good Chateauneufs, including the 1994 Pegau Cuvee Reservee. Tonight, as a match for grilled lamb chops, it was singing.

Medium dark crimson. Some sediment near the bottom. Intense, lilting aromas of herbs, strawberries, mint, new leather and sea salt. Very much a Chateauneuf du Pape and the grapes come from venerable vineyards in la Crau and Piedlong. Plums, berries and cherries on the palate. Has a gamey quaality that probably turned me off last December, but it is very similar to the gamey notes in Australian or New Zealand lamb. A perfect wine for the meal. And still growing.