Beaucastel is a name that looms large for those obsessed with the Southern Rhône.

Few, if any, producers in the region possess such a storied and long tradition of excellence. Few have the track record for aging.

Beaucastel's calling card is a sturdy structure enveloped in plenty of richness and a flavor profile that's savory and not shy on animal notes. I've tasted through verticals of Beaucastel and have been amazed not only by how the wines age, but also by how nuanced their dark, sauvage profile is.

I was excited to find this parcel of 1998 Beaucastel recently. The 1998 is one of the most fascinating expressions of Beaucastel.

The 1998 Beaucastel is incredibly deep, silky and complicated. Whereas many vintages of Beaucastel have a certain ruggedness, the 1998 has a shocking finesse and alluring texture.

The '98 vintage in Châteauneuf was held in very high regard from day one, with Grenache as the star. Beaucastel is famous for using a high percentage of Mourvedre, but in 1998 they leaned on Grenache with amazing success.

Beaucastel's '98 boasts a wild array of dark fruits, herbs, spice and game. There's a seductive mouthfeel with an explosive and deep mid-palate.

It's rare that I find aged Châteauneuf of this pedigree in any quantity. I'm really happy to have landed this sharply priced parcel. Please give us your ideal order and we'll try our best.

To order, email offers@crushwineco.com or call the store at (212) 980-9463.

Ian McFadden

Director, Fine & Rare Wine
Crush Wine & Spirits

1998 Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape

 

Jeb Dunnuck for the Wine Advocate: "The atypically Grenache-dominated 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape is fully mature and gives up tons of kirsch, garrigue, licorice and a touch of gaminess in its full-bodied, layered and ripe personality. More rounded and sexy than most vintages, it has no hard edges, plenty of mid-palate depth and a great finish. I see no reason to delay gratification, but it will certainly hold for 5-10 years."