The least impressive of the 1993 and 1994 offerings (but still excellent) is the 1993 Chateauneuf du Pape. It offers a healthy dark ruby color with purple tints, a firm structure, moderate tannin, and a sweet, berry-scented perfume with hints of black olives, Provencal herbs, and cherry/cassis. The 1993 is a rich, well-proportioned Chateauneuf du Pape that should drink well for 10-12 years.
Aime Sabon has emerged as one of the bright shining stars of Chateauneuf du Pape. Her wines are not to be missed, although Europeans are quickly catching on to their sumptuousness and exhilarating precision and richness. Sabon enjoyed considerable success in both 1993 and 1994. Domaine de la Janasse has not yet received the world-wide recognition it deserves, so shrewd buyers are advised to stock up.
Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, New York, NY; tel. (212) 924-4949