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

I have been buying and enjoying Les Clefs d'Or Chateauneuf du Pape since the 1983 vintage. While this 2000 vintage does not measure up to the excellent wines produced in 1988 and 1989, it is still showing very well.

Mature, medium light color. Lifted aromatics. Cherry, menthol, rosemary and thyme. In smell and flavor, the wine is a perfect match for Patricia Wells' Provencal lamb au gratin. Ripe fruit, dried and fresh, and herb-tinged acidity. Classic Chateauneuf at a good stage of maturity.