1998 Domaine La Roquette Chateauneuf-du-Pape
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Tasting notes
Dark ruby with brick rim – looks VERY mature! Low key rather febrile nose. Dusty tannins on the finish. Some spice. Very warm, alcoholic and dusty. Cough medicine. Not pure. (JR)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
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Since proprietor Daniel Brunier installed a new winemaking facility at La Roquette, this wine, which has always been good, has taken a noticeable leap in quality. Aged totally in foudre before being bottled, La Roquette is usually a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre. The 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape is one of the finest La Roquettes I have ever tasted. It boasts a dense dark ruby/purple color, as well as a powerful bouquet of black cherry jam, kirsch liqueur, pepper, and Provencal spices, abundant glycerin, low acidity, and a fleshy, full-bodied finish. Tannin and structure are present, but they play second fiddle to the forward fruit, glycerin, and power. Anticipated maturity: now-2012. Importer: Chateau and Estates Wine Co., New York, NY; tel. (212) 572-7725