1999 Chateau de Beaucastel Rouge, Chateauneuf-du-Pape 1x750ml

Robert Parker 92

A great performance although initially the nose is closed and takes time before aromas of violets, plum, wild hedgrow and black cherries emerge. Lots of vigour, great definition. The palate is medium-bodied, very harmonious with good depth, less feminine than I have found it in the past. Firming up? Sinewy middle leading towards a game-tinged finish. Very good length with a hint of black truffle on the aftertaste. Superb. Drink 2010-2020+. Tasted May 2007. [Neal Martin, 05/01/2007]

Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020

Vinous 92+

Full ruby. Highly complex nose combines black fruits, gibier, truffle, road tar, licorice and leather. Very intense and spicy, but still tightly wound, with a firm acid spine keeping the flavors under wraps. "Very interior wine today," notes Perrin. But one already senses the incipient complexity. Finishes with building tannins, a note of caramel and terrific persistence. This will need time. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/01/2002]