1995 Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée des Cadettes

Fashioned from 44% Grenache and equal parts Mourvedre and Syrah, the ruby/purple-colored 1995 offers tight but promising aromas of red and black fruits, scorched earth, wood some, and vanilla. Medium to full-bodied, tannic, and tightly knit, it requires another 4-5 years of cellaring (as do many 1995 Chateauneuf du Papes). Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016. 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