I have had the 1995 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape four times since it was bottled, and can state unequivocally that it is the quintessential Rayas. The wine is extraordinarily concentrated, with an unbelievable concentration of ripe black raspberry, cherry, and kirsch flavors that are not dissimilar from a great vintage (i.e., 1947, 1950, 1982) of the famed Pomerol, Chateau Lafleur. It possesses an old vine intensity, multiple layers of richness, and admirable structure, as well as surprisingly fine acidity. This is a phenomenally compelling, but backward Rayas that is more concentrated than the 1990, and, yes, as ageworthy as the surreal 1978. Owners should resist drinking it for another 4-5 years; it will last for 20-30 years. This is among the most awesome young wines I have tasted this year. Importers: Martine's Wines, San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 485-1800, and Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173
Published: Oct 31, 1997