1995 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes

Called a "correct" vintage by the Armenier Sisters, the 1995 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is more firm, focused and fresh than the more opulent styled 1998. Giving up lots of garrigue, cedary spice, cured meats and ample ripe fruit, it's full-bodied, elegant and seamless, with firm tannin that I suspect will always be present. Given the elevated tannin and mature feel, I suspect it's best enjoyed sooner rather than later.

Sophie Armenier’s first vintage, the 1995 Domaine de Marcoux Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is drinking beautifully, yet has lots of life left. The wine possesses superb aromatics with perfumed garrigue, saddle leather, licorice, and dried meats literally jumping from the glass, and while gorgeously complex, this is still grounded by vibrant core of sweet Grenache fruit. More restrained and streamlined on the palate, this took some time to unwind, showing a medium to full-bodied mouth feel, good acidity, and fine tannin on a classic, very long finish. Just a superb example of Châteauneuf, this classic wine should continue to shine for another 5-8 years, if not longer depending on your personal preferences.

Called a "correct" vintage by the Armenier Sisters, the 1995 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is more firm, focused and fresh than the more opulent styled 1998. Giving up lots of garrigue, cedary spice, cured meats and ample ripe fruit, it's full-bodied, elegant and seamless, with firm tannin that I suspect will always be present. Given the elevated tannin and mature feel, I suspect it's best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Oct 2016, www.robertparker.com