1996 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Roussanne V V
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Tasting notes
This is a bit old on the nose – distinctly mealy and without freshness – though perhaps it is just between those two periods of drinkability for white Châteauneuf?? There is obviously a lot of substance here along with rich honey flavours. But it seems too flabby and oxidised at the moment. The Perrins’ famous all-Roussanne bottling. (JR)
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The 1996 Chateauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes was extremely closed, but it is loaded with extract. With coaxing, scents of minerals, mint, honey, acacia flowers, and spice emerge. The wine is medium to full-bodied, long, and powerful, with everything buttressed by zesty acidity. It is extremely backward. Look for this wine to evolve for two decades. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
About the producer
This Châteauneuf-du-Pape estate is one of the Rhône’s most famous addresses. With a history stretching back to the 16th century, Beaucastel remains family owned and run, with the fifth generation of the Perrin family – Marc, Pierre, Thomas, Cécile, Charles, Matthieu and César – at the helm today.