1996 Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘La Crau’, Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe

1996 Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘La Crau’, Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe

Appearance: medium red purple with bricky tinge.

Nose: white pepper, red and black plums, red cherry, slightly vegetal, nice oak.

Palate: chewy but not astringent, already slightly softened tannins alcoholic, red cherry and plum fruits with a slight chutney or spiced taste, balanced acid. Good length.

Conclusion: already drinking but also has huge potential for next two to three years (and perhaps longer). More forward than equivalent vintage from Clos des Papes (at least with this bottle). Very sophisticated Châteauneuf.

Rating: 18/20