Not one of winemaker Andre Brunel's favorite vintages (although I'm a fan), the 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape reveals a surprisingly youthful, lively ruby color to the rim to go with classic notes of dried Provencal herbs, cured meats, kirsch, leather and exotic spices. These carry to a full-bodied, ripe, concentrated Chateauneuf du Pape that's fully mature, yet still has plenty of fruit, sweet tannin and a big, low acid, decadently styled finish. It's a big, hedonistic Chateauneuf to enjoy over the coming couple of years.
Published : 1997-10-01