1978 Clos du Mont-Olivet Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Stepping back a decade, and in need of being drunk, the 1978 Chateauneuf du Pape offers notions of toasted nuts, old cabinet, cured meats and basil leaf to go with a medium-bodied, supple and seamless feel on the palate. Still showing a lively amber/ruby color, it nevertheless has a tinge of dryness on the finish, so drinking sooner rather than later is advised here. I’m not sure if this estate produces one of the longest-lived Chateauneuf du Papes out there, or if it just seems that way due to the fact that they have such a fantastic library of old wines and I’m able to taste more of them! Nevertheless, Clos du Mont Olivet, which is now run by Thierry Sabon, is a brilliant estate that fashions traditional, age-worthy Chateauneuf du Papes that have incredibly broad drink windows. Various American importers including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; David Hinkle, North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 848-8910; Dionysus Imports, Manassas, VA; tel. (703) 392-7073; Ideal Wines and Spirits, Medford, MA; tel. (617) 395-3300; The Wine Company, St. Paul, MN; tel. (651) 487-1212; and Import Wines, Middleton, WI; tel. (608) 833-8622