Chateauneuf du Pape Vieux Telegraphe

Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe has been run by the Brunier family for five generations, and since 1891. The estate’s vineyards are situated on the famous “Plateau de la Crau”, the stony terrace where there is nothing but “galets roulés”, or rounded stones, as far as the eye can see. This special terroir imparts a highly distinctive minerality to the wines. After more than 125 years in existence, the Domaine and its associated vineyards, guided by the fifth and the sixth generations of vignerons, have kept all its initial philosophy very much alive.

The grapes come from vines that are on average seventy-year-old. Gentle pressing and selective destemming to ensure high quality grapes and a mix of flavour. Followed by thirty to forty days’ traditional fermentation in temperature–controlled stainless-steel and wooden vats. Pneumatic pressing is used and then systematic malolactic fermentation. Matured for twenty to twenty-two months in large French oak barrels. The wine is bottled, unfined and unfiltered, then released after two years.

This wine is made with sixty-five percent Grenache, fifteen percent Syrah, fifteen percent Mourvèdre and five percent Cinsault from vines grown on the galet-strewn La Crau plateau. Juicy yet refined, its raspberry and strawberry coulis nose is lifted by hints of rose petals. The palate has a moderate density with fine, chalky tannins, layers of berry fruit, and herbal freshness. It is mouth-watering near endless energy.