The top cuvee of old vines, the 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale reveals a dense ruby-purple color, along with complexity in the nose (seaweed, balsam, ripe black cherries, and earth). Expansive and full-bodied, with noticeable tannin in the fabulous finish, this sumptuous, powerful 1999 is impressive, particularly in view of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: now-2018. Raymond Usseglio is at the top of his game and consumers should be pursuing his splendid wines. Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel (610) 486-0800