1995 Chateauneuf du Pape

The 1995 Chateauneuf du Pape continues to put on weight, and is even better than I predicted from barrel. The wine boasts a dense purple color, followed by a terrific set of aromatics (cassis and prunes). This concentrated, medium-bodied, broadly-textured, low acid sexy wine has a finish that lasts for 25 seconds. It is deeper than the 1996, and possibly longer-lived because it carries more weight and length. Anticipated maturity: 1999-2015. With the assistance of oenologist Jean-Luc Colombo, Bruno Leroy continues to rebuild this historic property's damaged reputation. The 1994 was outstanding, the 1995 appears to be sensational, and because of a strict selection process, Leroy has turned in one of the superlative performances of the 1996 vintage. Importer: Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173