The 1997 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits admirable depth for the vintage, as well as the year's easy to drink personality. There are cherries galore in this spicy, peppery, fragrant, expansively flavored, medium to full-bodied wine. While it is an ideal Chateauneuf for beginners, it will satisfy even such die-hard fans of the appellation as myself. Enjoy it over the next 3-4 years. Importer: Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173

A terroir-driven, traditional Chateauneuf--gamy, leathery and plummy. Smells of the aromas after a storm over the pebbles in the area's vineyards. Medium-bodied and tannic, but balanced with the ripeness of the flavors. The fat mouthfeel makes it a winner despite a slightly rustic finish. Best from 2001 through 2008. 1,250 cases made. -PM