The exquisite 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau de Ma Mere is even better out of bottle than it was from barrel. A dark plum/purple color is followed by aromas of kirsch liqueur, smoke, minerals, and pepper. It is deep and full-bodied, with immense levels of glycerin, a thick, unctuous texture, outstanding purity, and remarkable symmetry for a wine of such mass and ripeness. This 1998 can be drunk now as well as over the next 15-18 years. Importer: Michel-Schlumberger Imports, Healdsburg, CA; tel. (707) 433-7427