2007 CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE, ‘La Crau’, Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe

This estate is somewhat unusual in that it has 135 acres of contiguous parcels in the renowned La Crau sector of Chateauneuf du Pape – with the famed, large galets pudding stones which sit upon a predominantly clay sub soil. It has one of the most precocious terroirs in the appellation and is often among the first estates to harvest because of La Crau’s microclimate.

68% Grenache, 15% each of Mourvèdre and Syrah with a dash of Cinsault and Clairette

Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe is one of the finest estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Founded by Henri and Hippolite Brunier in 1891 the present Domaine is run by Daniel and Frédéric Brunier (along with their sons Édouard and Nicolas).

They produce a fine portfolio of Southern Rhône wines, led by the world class Vieux Télégraphe Châteauneuf du Pape.

Vines have an average age of 70 years. In 2007 the blend was 68% Grenache, 15% each of Mourvèdre and Syrah with a dash of Cinsault and Clairette. The wine was aged for around 20 months in large 600lt foudres and was bottled unfiltered and unfined.

2007 was one of the driest vintages on record with warm and even flower set and ripening period throughout the summer. 2 weeks of the cooling Mistral winds at the end of August and beginning of September moderated any excesses and help secure vital acid levels. At the time it was seen as the finest vintage since 1998 and to this day remains a modern day classic in the region. Colours were amazing and fruit flavours were opulent.

This is fully mature and showcasing its qualities at its best right now but can keep and enjoy over the next 5 years too when the savoury notes will increase.

No need to decant (there might be a light sediment at the end) – but can give it an hour’s airing before enjoying.

The wine showed well immediately and has been open and expressive through most of its life. Full-bodied and rich, with bold notes of cherry and redcurrant, pepper, and Asian spices with a long liquorice finish. Powerful but velvety in texture.