Slightly deeper in hue than La Nerthe, but the same depth of colour as Pégau. This wine has, remarkably enough, retained wild flower and lavender notes with a falling honeyed sweetness, too. On the palate, it has better volume and force than La Nerthe, with lower acidity and richer tannins. This is a very complete wine at present, with notes of thyme and meaty umami framing the refined, stony fruits

The elegant 2000 Vieux Telegraphe La Crau possesses 14.8% alcohol, along with a deep ruby/purple color, charming, rich, fruitiness, and firm tannin in the finish. With loads of freshness, copious quantities of pepper, seaweed, and black fruit characteristics, and a distinctive minerality, this full-bodied, sweet 2000 requires 2-3 years of cellaring; it should age well for 15-16 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2018.

(a blend of 65% grenache, 15% syrah, 15% mourvedre and 5% clairette and cinsault) Medium red-ruby. Slightly roasted aromas of plum and cherry liqueur, underbrush and menthol. Sweet, full, lush and suave; thoroughly ripe but not surmuri Less expressive today than the '99, but this should be classic Chateauneuf. Finishes with big, building, chocolatey tannins.