The outstanding 1997 Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau de la Mere is one of the vintage's stars. A beauty, it boasts a deep ruby color, followed by explosive jammy, blackberry, and cherry fruit intermixed with spice and pepper. Medium to full-bodied and dense, with superb purity, and a multi-layered, unctuously-textured finish, this wine combines power and concentration with an aromatic, supple style. The deep ruby/purple color hints of the impressive extraction obtained in this vintage. Drink it over the next 6-8 years. This fine 1996 is among the more full-flavored and robust Chateauneuf du Papes of this soft, commercially-styled vintage. Importer: Michel-Schlumberger Imports, Healdsburg, CA; tel. (707) 433-7427