Robert Parker called 2001 one of the best vintages for Chateauneuf-du-Pape. He gave this one 96 points and wrote the "profound, inky purple-colored 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape is one of the great classic Beaucastels of recent years. It may be even better than its three immediate predecessors....The 2001's sumptuous bouquet of black fruits, saddle leather, underbrush, truffles, roasted herbs, cigar tobacco, and earth is followed by a concentrated, full-bodied wine with a penetrating intensity yet splendid freshness and vibrancy. This magnificent, majestic Beaucastel should hit its peak in a decade, and last 25 years." Wine Spectator gave it 91 points and described it as "Ripe and fleshy, with lots of black cherry, plum, anise and tar flavors along a succulent palate. Sweet and velvety on the finish; drinkable now, but will age well." This is a great opportunity to enjoy a truly fine example of this most famous style of southern Rhone wines.