Vieux-Telegraphe has produced three very good cuvees of white wine in 1996. 1996 is the debut vintage for the white Hippolyte. Seventy-five percent of this wine was barrel-fermented, and the balance is vinified in cuve. It is a layered, concentrated white Chateauneuf du Pape that is made from the same blend as the regular cuvee (40% Clairette, 30% Grenache Blanc, 15% Roussanne, and 15% Bourboulenc). The greater amount of barrel fermentation has given the wine a creamier texture, as well as more intensity, without any unwanted woodiness. This wine is made in extremely tiny quantities. It is a succulent, rich, and provocative white Chateauneuf du Pape. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel (510) 524-1524