This is a vintage that is nearing the end of its life, but which can still be spectacular where well-stored. It is a classic Rayas vintage, with the 1983 potentially the “wine of the vintage” in Chateauneuf du Pape. The wine reveals considerable amber in its color, along with a huge, intoxicating aromatic display of red and black fruits, herbs, spices, earth, and licorice. It is a full-bodied, sweet, creamy-textured Chateauneuf du Pape that, while gorgeous to drink, should be drunk up. Importers: Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173 and Martine’s Wines, Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-0400