Description

Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe is the Brunier family’s flagship. Situated on the famous, vast, stony terrace of La Crau plateau, in the southeast of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC. Of the 173 acres that form the domaine today, 65 are dedicated to red Châteauneuf-du-Pape and five to white. Four wines are produced Vieux Télégraphe, The oldest vines and the most complex cuvees produce the Vieux Télégraphe red and white. There is also red and white under their second label Le Télégramme. But this wine isn’t second to many, especially in good to great years.

100% Grenache cuvee made from younger vines (usually 30-35 years old). Aged completely in foudre, this is a picture of elegance and finesse. There is the lovely perfume of Grenache but the weight and silk you expect from great Chateauneuf. 2009 is a lovely vintage and this will undoubtedly age very well.

Chateauneuf du Pape

The house of the New Pope. Where Grenache transcends its tendency towards mediocrity and because a noble variety. The reds can be a blend of up to 15 varieties with the main three being Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre. Some estates use all 15, some use as little as one. With a range of terriors and blending options it is hard to pin down CNDP to one style, so find a producer you like and find out their conspirators. The ability to age here is the same as great Burgundy or Bordeaux. The whites can be as outstanding as the reds but definitely on the expensive side.

Grenache

AKA Garnacha. Originally a Spanish variety it is known for being aromatic, low in acid with moderate tannin and high in alcohol. Quite often Grenache is blended with other varieties to add structure and tame its exuberance. The top wines of Priorat, Rioja, Chateauneuf du Pape or Barossa can age extremely well.