In 1996, Roger Sabon vinified a small parcel of exceptionally old vines (over 70 years of age) and produced tiny quantities of a 1996 Chateauneuf du Pape Le Secret de Sabon. Made from a blend of 70% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre, and 10% diverse varietals, there are only 1,000 bottles of this outstanding Chateauneuf du Pape. One of the vintage's most concentrated wines, this luscious offering reveals copious quantities of black fruits intermixed with herbs, pepper, and Allspice. Impressive alcohol and glycerin give the wine a viscous, chewy texture - atypical for a 1996. It should drink well for a decade. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, New York, NY; tel. (212) 924-4949