1998 Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Crau
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Tasting notes
A classic wine from this estate, the 1998 Châteauneuf Du Pape reveals a still youthful ruby/plum hue to go with darker, meaty fruits as well as notes of leather, mushrooms, and Provençal spice. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, with nicely integrated acidity and resolved tannins, the balance is spot on, it has outstanding length, and is just a classy, fully mature Chateauneuf du Pape to enjoy over the coming 5-7 years. (It will keep longer.)
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Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
This amazing Chateauneuf-du-Pape squares the circle of southern richness and spring-like freshness in spite of coming from a very warm and dry vintage. The stony minerality, saltiness and dried flower character wind together to form a dynamic whole, driving this gracefully across the palate. But I must also mention the savory and licorice richness that is so deftly wrapped around them. Very long, salty and velvety finish. Drink or hold.
Between 1978 and 2007, this 1998 is the greatest Vieux Telegraphe that was produced. It has taken a good decade for this wine to shed its tannins and come out of a dormant, closed period. It has finally emerged, and notes of iodine, seaweed, black currants, incense, and sweet cherries as well as hot rocks jump from the glass of this full-bodied, powerful wine. It possesses considerable elegance and purity, along with loads of raspberries and incense, in a round, juicy, rich style that is just emerging from the closet. The wine is still youthful and a pre-adolescent in terms of its ultimate evolution. Approachable now, it will continue to evolve for another 15-20 years. Bravo!