I was also able to do a small retrospective of the 1999, 1989, and 2009, all of which have loads of classic, Provençal charm as well as plenty of brett. The 1999 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Réservée is mature and right in the middle of its drink window, offering loads of kirsch and blackberry fruits as well as notes of game, truffle, ground pepper, and bouquet garni nuances. Incredibly complex, medium to full-bodied, and loaded with Provençal character, feel free to enjoy bottles any time over the coming decade.

A powerful, concentrated 1999 Chateauneuf du Papes was produced at Chateau Pegau. The dense ruby/purple-colored 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee boasts a powerful bouquet of pepper, garrigue, black fruits, and earth. Full-bodied and expansive, with sweet tannin giving it a more open-knit, accessible style than most young vintages of Pegau, this is a wine to drink while waiting for the 1998 and 1995 to become fully mature. Anticipated maturity: now-2014.

Bright ruby-red. Liqueur-like aromas of jammy roasted fruits and herbs, along with an exotic suggestion of passion fruit. Lush, sweet and exotic on the palate, with flavors of kirsch, licorice and herbs. Finishes with substantial but sweet tannins.