1998 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes

A tannic, backward, monolithic style of Chateauneuf du Pape, this old vine cuvee (50% of the vineyard is 40 years or older, with 19% 90 years or older) is a solid, well-endowed, concentrated effort with dusty cherry fruit, dried herbs, and pepper notes. The color is a healthy dark ruby with purple nuances. Closed, firm, and big, but needing coaxing, this Chateauneuf du Pape requires 3-4 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2015. Importers: a Jack Siler Selection, various American importers; tel. (303) 444-0832, and Daniel Johnnes, Jeroboam Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 625-2519.