Yesterday afternoon I joined in with a small group for a Syrah and Shiraz tasting, some incredible wines were enjoyed. The First flight was Rhone:

1 – 1985 Beaumes de Venise Cote du Rhone
Burnish/brown color really revealing it’s age, a bit of a funky nose. Eatrhy and rustic, tired, but certainly not dead.
2 - 1994 Chateau Rayas Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Light browning at the edge, expansive nose, absolutely wonderful full flavor of cherries, anice, and spice. Tremendous wine, my #2 of the flight.
3 - 1983 M. Chapoutier Hermitage La Sizeranne
Burnish/brown aged color, this one was pretty well done in my opinion, lacked fruit, structure.
4 - 1989 M. Chapoutier Hermitage La Sizeranne
Saturated dark purple with no sign of fading, good sweet fruit, slightly drying tannins on the short but pleasant finish. My #4 of the flight.
5 - 1995 Domaine do Vieux Telegraphe CdP La Crau
Dark purple, stunning explosive nose. Huge feel in the mouth, showing smoke, gamey meat, and spice with a tremendous finish that goes on forever. My #1 of the flight.
6 – 2000 Les Vine de Vienne Cornas
Deep purple color, this is clearly young yet showing remarkably well. Smooth, rich, with light smoke and game notes, if just a tad thin on the mid-palate. Very nice medium finish. My #3 of the flight. (Best after 2005).

Eric, when would you estimate the Vieux Telegraphe will be at its best?

Montreal, I wish I could confirm but I don't have the info on that one, sorry.

Board-O, It's drinking beautifully right now, but I would suggest another 5 years would be appropriate.

The 1978 is at its peak now. I've had a number of Vieux Telegraphes too soon. To me, they tasted ready to drink, but just not that good. Then, with more time, they were exceptional.

Montreal - Welcome to VinoCellar!