which are the best years for a Chateau-Neuf-du-Pape and for an Hermitage(both red)?

Answer 1

For the Southern Rhone area (Chateau-Neuf-du-Pape) it looks like: 1981, 1979, 1978, 1970, 1967, 1966, 1961, 1988-1990 (89 being the best), 1995, 1998-2001 ('98 being the best over the entire 20 years), 1993-1995 (the '95's are not out yet but it looks to be a good year).

For the Northern Rhone area (Hermitage): 1985, 1982, 1979, 1978, 1976, 1969, 1966, 1964, 1961, 1959, 1988-1990 ('90 being the best), 1995, 1996, 1999, 2003-2005 ('03 being the best).

I took this from Wine Spectators Vintage Chart. The "best years" are based on years WS gave the vintage at least a 90 (outstanding).

Answer 2

A good winery can make a good wine in a bad year and vice versa, so the reputation of the individual winery is most important.

However, I suggest you avoid Southern Rhone wines from 2002 as it was a year of torrential rain, hail and flooded vineyards and even thebest wineries couldn't avoid making thin and watery wines. It is this vintage that you may see on sale at what looks like a bargain price -- thats the reason.