Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 99 points

Flirting with perfection, the 2001 Coteaux du Languedoc la Porte du Ciel is easily the finest vintage of this cuvee made to date (the 2009 and 2010 are neck and neck). Possessing the incredible complexity and perfumed quality this cuvee always shows (iodine, caramelized meats, beef blood, licorice, decadent dark fruits), it?s the one vintage that comes closest to the sheer decadence, concentration and texture that is more commonly found in the Clos du Truffiers cuvee. Deep, rich, layered, yet still with that weightless elegance that is the hallmark of this cuvee, it?s drinking at point, but will cruise for another 4-5 years, and keep for longer. Hats off to the Negly team for this incredible wine!

Review date: May 2016