The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape (70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre aged one year in wood foudres and a second year in wood cuves) boasts beautiful density and purity as well as stunning aromatics and a full-bodied, multi-textured style. The freshness and vibrancy achieved because of the cool, exceptionally dry growing season is well-displayed in the beautiful, almost Burgundian-like perfume, but the wine possesses the strength, power, and substance of a southern Rhone. Drink it over the next 15+ years.
Formerly Domaine La Roquete (and mis-spelled last year as Roquette), the Brunier family has changed the name to Clos La Roquete as they recognize this is a true “clos” (a totally walled vineyard). As I have indicated in several recent Chateauneuf du Pape reports, this is one of the estates for which the Bruniers have pushed the envelope of quality higher and higher in each new vintage. This is the finest group of wines they have yet produced, and readers should take serious note.
(WA 30th Oct 2008)
