The saturated dark ruby-colored 1997 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Classique exhibits the tell-tale cherry, kirsch liqueur and peppery-scented nose, full body, admirable ripeness and purity, and low acid, heady, precocious style. It should drink well for 5-8 years. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, New York, NY; tel. (212) 924-4949

This wine turned out extremely well. It offers immediate charm and appeal. The 1996 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Classique's smoky, spicy, leathery, black cherry, and olive-scented nose jumps from the glass. It is a medium-bodied, lush, elegant wine with excellent richness, and a straightforward, spicy, moderately long finish. It needs to be drunk over the next 4-5 years. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, New York, NY; tel. (212) 924-4949

As I indicated last year, as well as in my new book on the Rhone, Janasse's 1995s are brilliant wines. The 1995 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Classique is the least complex, with a dark ruby color, and a spicy, peppery, kirsch-scented nose with a touch of prunes. With moderate tannin and grip, this is a firm, medium to full-bodied, attractively made style of Chateauneuf du Pape that will benefit from another 1-2 years of cellaring, and last for a decade. These are impeccably made offerings from one of the finest estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, New York, NY; tel. (212) 924-4949