1998 Clos du Mont-Olivet Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape is a big effort, displaying spice, pepper, and tannin. Its dense ruby/plum/purple color is followed by a full-bodied wine with the tell-tale kirsch flavors, and nicely-layered fat and texture. Although not the blockbuster I thought it might turn out to be, it is an impressive Chateauneuf du Pape with lots of firmness and spice. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2015. Importers: North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 848-8910 and Ideal Wines, Medford, MA; tel. (617) 395-3300