(92+ points) While the ’96 seems ready to go, this bottle of 1995 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape started open and lush but slowly firmed up, presenting an almost clean, civilized bouquet of earthy black cherry...
(92+ points) While the ’96 seems ready to go, this bottle of 1995 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape started open and lush but slowly firmed up, presenting an almost clean, civilized bouquet of earthy black cherry, truffle, roasted meats, and a touch of tobacco. I love the clarity and focus on the nose. The palate follows suit with medium body, plenty of ripe fruit, a smooth, balanced character and a classy finish. After a less than stellar showing by a recent bottle, this reaffirms my belief that this has a long life ahead of it. Will it improve? I don’t know and it’s certainly delicious now. I would hold bottles for another 2 to 3 years and then drink over the following decade.