Aged in equal proportions of new, first, and second year oak barrels, the 1996 Pouilly-Fuisse Clos Reyssie Reserve Particuliere has deep vanilla and mineral aromas. This oily-textured, medium-to-full-bodied, lively, and broadly-structured wine has loads of minerals and flint in its flavor profile. It is gorgeously ripe and yet possesses the 1996 vintage's trademark tangy acidity. It should be at its best between 2000 and 2005. The score, noted on a range and in parentheses, indicates that the wine was tasted from barrel. Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Fran Kysela, Winchester, VA; tel (540) 722-9228.

Aged in equal proportions of new, first, and second year oak barrels, the 1996 Pouilly-Fuisse Clos Reyssie Reserve Particuliere has deep vanilla and mineral aromas. This oily-textured, medium-to-full-bodied, lively, and broadly-structured wine has loads of minerals and flint in its flavor profile. It is gorgeously ripe and yet possesses the 1996 vintage's trademark tangy acidity. It should be at its best between 2000 and 2005. The score, noted on a range and in parentheses, indicates that the wine was tasted from barrel.Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Fran Kysela, Winchester, VA; tel (540) 722-9228.

Distinctive, oaky style, with heavy butterscotch, caramel and lemon notes, but there's intense fruit beneath that brings lots of bright, burning character to this medium-bodied '96. Not for the faint of heart. Best from 2002 through 2006. -PM