TN: 1998 Bosquet des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Chantemerle

Brian_London · August 4, 2009, 4:28am

1998 Bosquet des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Chantemerle - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape (8/3/2009)
Popped, decanted and enjoyed over two hours. Immediately upon opening, color was rust and showed age beyond its 11 years. Nose was faint with hints of barnyard, blood and flowers. Our thought was that the wine would deteriorate, but it did not. Rather, it gained body, balance, complexity and structure over the two hour period, developing a richness that was unthinkable upon opening. If you have any of these, decant them for an hour for maximum enjoyment. The last glasses, drank with the cheese plate, were the best of the evening.

Dennis_Atick · August 4, 2009, 11:48am

Nice note Brian. My last bottle of this was corked up last year. Too bad, sounds like it’s showing pretty well. Cheers.

Paul_Jaouen · August 4, 2009, 5:10pm

Thanks for the note. I have very few of these left. I’ve liked every bottle I’ve drunk.

Phil_Wilkins · August 4, 2009, 6:36pm

Interesting, as this is the second note I’ve read recently saying the same thing. I’m holding out hope for my 30 bottles of, and so far untouched, 2001!

Phil_Wilkins · August 4, 2009, 6:50pm

PS Now called Chante Le Merle from the 1999 vintage after someone whinged about the cuvee being called Chantemerle.