1999 Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée des Cadettes

The 1999 (39% Grenache, 35% Syrah, and 26% Mourvedre, all aged in barrel) does not reveal the fat of the 2000 or 1998, but it is an elegant, well-delineated effort with copious vibrancy, freshness, and cedar, black cherry and cassis fruit. Medium to full-bodied with a moderately muscular personality, it will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring, and keep for 15-18. The top cuvee of the most majestic estate in Chateauneuf du Pape, Chateau de la Nerthe, the Cuvee des Cadettes is only made in the finest years. The ideal production desired by administrator Alain Dugas is 1,000-1,500 cases. The blend changes from year to year, but it generally includes a high percentage of Mourvedre. Importer: Clicquot Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 888-7575