La Fiole du Pape-What is it?

[docd]

Can anyone tell meabout a wine gift I received? The label states that it is a La Fiole du Pape; Chateauneuf du Pape; Appelation Chateauneuf du Pape controlee; produit di France mis en bouteille par Pere Anselme Chateauneuf du Pape (Vaucluse) France. Nowhere can I find a vintage date,but there is no neck label. The bottle itself is eccentricly shaped,with a bulge on one side of the neck and a more gradual taper on the other. It is imprinted with the papal seal.

[Drew]

Welcome Docd, I've managed to find a little about your wine. Pop's wine, WWW.Popswine.com lists it for sale at $23.35 per bottle but doesn't list the vintage year. Chateauneuf-du-Pape, "New castle of the Pope", French wines are blends of up to 13 different grape varieties by French law. The wines can vary in style according to the proprietor's particular blend, but are generally robust, ripe and rich, with soft tannins. I can't seem to find a listing or background for that chateau nor can I offer any tasting notes.

Drew

[docd]

Drew, thanks much for your enlightening answer. At least now I have two parameters, price and style, by which to judge it.Chat boards like this are great learning tools for us novices. Thanks again!