1961 Clos du Mont-Olivet Châteauneuf-du-Pape

My favorite wine of the tasting was the 1961 Chateauneuf du Pape. Just a gorgeous example of a completely mature Chateauneuf, it boasts knockout aromas and flavors of forest floor, rose petal, mint, tobacco leaf and hints of cured meats, all of which continue to change and develop in the glass. Still a healthy ruby/amber color, it’s medium to full-bodied, layered and silky on the palate, with a great finish that belies its 50+ years of age. I’m not sure if this estate produces one of the longest-lived Chateauneuf du Papes out there, or if it just seems that way due to the fact that they have such a fantastic library of old wines and I’m able to taste more of them! Nevertheless, Clos du Mont Olivet, which is now run by Thierry Sabon, is a brilliant estate that fashions traditional, age-worthy Chateauneuf du Papes that have incredibly broad drink windows. Various American importers including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; David Hinkle, North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 848-8910; Dionysus Imports, Manassas, VA; tel. (703) 392-7073; Ideal Wines and Spirits, Medford, MA; tel. (617) 395-3300; The Wine Company, St. Paul, MN; tel. (651) 487-1212; and Import Wines, Middleton, WI; tel. (608) 833-8622