2001 Domaine du Pégau Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée, France, Rhone, Wine Review

This wine was bought on release and is exactly where it should be at age 21.  Deep ruby in color with just a bit of browning at the edges.  Clear and bright.  The wine initially has some bottle funk but that blows of to reveal a classic CdP nose.  Cherries, spice, slight barnyard, a bit of dried cherries and roasted herbs.  Medium to full bodied.  Great energy and balance.  on the palate, this is complex and layered.  Cherries, fresh and dried, earthiness and char.  Nice balance.  Good finish.  This is fully mature and probably needs to be drunk soon as it starts to fade.  Still, another five years of excellent drinking.  It will work great with food.  Stews or chili will work well.