The virtually perfect 1978 still possesses a dark, dense plum/garnet color to the rim. An extraordinary nose of black tea intermixed with licorice, figs, truffles, black currants, and cherries is to die for. The wine is full-bodied and dense, with melted licorice and truffle flavors dominating the palate. Powerful yet harmonious, this is one of the modern day classics of Chateauneuf du Pape. Anticipated maturity: now-2012.
Importer: Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173