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Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2025-01-17

Publication on "Le Figaro Magazine"

In this new year, Martin Lemaire publishes a beautiful article on the estate in Le Figaro Magazine Find the article in the Figaro supplement - Section No. 1, Issues No. 25006 and 25007, dated January 17 and 18, 2025

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2025-01-01

Publication on "Bettane et Desseauve 2025"

Once again praised in the Bettane & Desseauve guide, discover the ratings of our cuvées and the article highlighting Fabrice Brunel. Find the article on Fabrice Brunel on page 305 of your Bettane & Desseauve 2025 guide, and the rating of the estate on page 309 ! Les Cailloux red2023 et white 2021 : 93 points...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2024-12-18

Among the top 10 wines of 2024 by Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen, the Cuvée Centenaire 2022 is one of them !!- The Oeno Files by Robb Report

At the end of this year, Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen share with us, in The Oeno Files by Robb Report, their top 10 wines of the year... and our Cuvée Centenaire 2022 is featured in this top 10!! Discover the article listing the top 10 wines of the year from these two journalists by clicking here .

Blog Gin

Published : 2024-11-01

Publication in La Revue du Vin de France – November 2024

This time, it is our GIN 13 that La Revue des Vins de France highlights in its November "Spirits" supplement Read the article below :

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2024-10-28

Publication in La Revue du Vin de France – October 2024

Our Cuvée Centenaire 2022 is highlighted in La Revue du Vin de France No. 685, October 2024 ! Turn to page 125 of the magazine to see Roberto Petronio's rating for our exquisite Cuvée Centenaire 2022 : "97/100 - Cuvée Centenaire The olfactory intensity increases with a pronounced richness. Similarly, the palate...

Press & Guides Gin

Published : 2024-08-27

Review : Le Gin 13 - DRINKHACKER

This week, it's DRINKHACKER talking about our GIN 13 in their review of August 27, 2024 : " Le Gin 13, as the “Le” might suggest, hails from France — specifically the cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape-based maker of the wines Les Cailloux and Cuvée Centenaire, André Brunel. The gin is made from a base...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2024-08-23

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Les Cailloux white 2023 – Robert Parker – Wine Advocate : 94/100

We received a score of 94/100 for our Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Les Cailloux blanc 2024 "An elegant, complex bouquet of white flowers, apricot, jasmineand lemon oil prefaces the 2023 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc, amedium to full-bodied, pure and layered white wine with a fleshycore of fruit, bright acids and a lively,...

Press & Guides Gin

Published : 2024-07-19

"Why Are Winemakers Suddenly Making Gin?" - Food and Wine

Thank you Brian Freedman for your article : " Gin has the potential to be a deeply terroir-driven spirit, so it only makes sense that winemakers are getting into the game. From France and Italy to New Mexico and beyond, a growing range of gins are being crafted by winemakers or incorporating their expertise to achieve...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2024-07-18

The magazine norwegian APPETITT has highlighted us – APPETITT

We were featured this summer in the Norwegian magazine APPETITT : " Domaine André Brunel, Côtes du Rhône Cuvée Sommelongue 2023 André Brunel is one of the most prominent names in the Rhône Valley, in France's most historic appellation, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This wine comes from a single vineyard that has been in the...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2024-07-15

"Wines For Bastille Day: 14 Rosés for the 14th" - Forbes

Lana Bortolot at Forbes features our Cuvée Rosé, thank you ! : " André Brunel Vin de Pays Rosé 2023, Rhône Valley. From one of the Rhône’s notable wine-making families, this is a light-coral-colored, lip-smacking blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 20% Cinsault—a flavorful fresh market basket bursting with...

Press & Guides Gin

Published : 2024-07-13

What pairs well with 13 Le Gin 2022 ? - ALT OM GIN

" 13 Le Gin 2022 is a floral and complex gin made by the French winemaker André Brunel. This is an exciting gin that will vary in flavor from vintage to vintage, just like the wines they produce. I met Romain Pitaud, André Brunel’s winemaker, at the Oslo Ginfestival 2024. He had an interesting story to tell. The...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2024-06-17

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée 2022 - James Suckling : 93/100

We received a score of 93/100 for our Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée 2022 "A well-built, balanced and harmonious red from a blend of grenache, syrah and mourvedre. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. There is an elegant and refined character throughout. Poised and textural, with a bright finish full of verve and...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2024-06-17

Côtes-du-Rhône white Bécassonne 2023 - James Suckling : 92/100

We received a score of 92/100 for our Côtes-du-Rhône white Bécassonne 2023 ! "What a beautiful nose of peaches, apricots and orange blossoms this white Rhone has. On the medium-bodied palate it is at once succulent, elegant and charming, the wine gaining in depth in the long and polished finish. A cuvee of grenache...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2024-06-04

"How this Rhône winemaker is crafting one the purest expressions of Grenache anywhere" - Robb Report

" Among the great wines of the world, Châteauneuf-du-Pape holds its own compared to the best bottles from Burgundy or Bordeaux . Taking its name from the palace in which the Avignon popes resided during the 14th century, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is where the French appellation system was first created in 1923. The region...

Press & Guides Gin

Published : 2024-05-24

Le Domaine André Brunel, un vigneron qui se lance dans la production de Gin – Le Figaro

Depuis 2022, notre domaine s’est lancé dans la production de Gin : 13 Le Gin . Un gin unique qui n’est pas sans rappeler notre savoir-faire viticole pour nos vins Châteauneuf-du-Pape et nos côtes-du-rhône ! Ainsi, notre gin est une belle retranscription de notre histoire et de notre terroir, comme le...

Press & Guides Gin

Published : 2024-04-16

"13 Le Gin" in the magazine Terre de Vin

Habituellement mis en avant pour notre expertise et savoir-faire ancestral viticole, aujourd'hui c'est notre Gin : " 13 Le Gin ", qui est mis en lumière ! Un grand merci à Marie-Pierre Delpeuch pour cette belle reconnaissance : " Originaire des Pays-Bas et d’Angleterre, le gin s’est essaimé un peu partout...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-11-06

Publication in the "Revue du Vin de France" - October 2023

À nouveau, le domaine André Brunel est reconnu par la Revue du Vin de France. Une nouvelle occasion de mettre en valeur notre savoir-faire viticole ancestral. Cette fois, ce sont nos vins de l’appellation Châteauneuf-du-Pape, « Les cailloux » , qui sont, de par leur puissance et leur complexité, mis en avant....

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-11-06

Marie-Pierre Delpeuch praises the "Bécassonne" vintage.

Le Domaine André Brunel, dont l'expertise est transmise de génération en génération, est à nouveau mis en avant par le magazine Terre de Vins. La cuvée Bécassonne 2021, fruit de cette expertise familiale, est particulièrement appréciée. Merci à Marie-Pierre Delpeuch pour ce bel article : "Les Cailloux - André Brunel...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-10-30

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Cuvée Centenaire 2022 – Jeb Dunnuck : 97/100

We received a score of 97/100 for our Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire 2022 ! "Kirsch liqueur, peppery garrigue, wildfl owers, andgraphite-like minerality all shine in the 2022Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Centenaire, a tinyproduction release based on very old vine Grenachefrom the northwestern region of the...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-10-12

Parution dans la Revue du Vin de France – Octobre 2023

Les vins de notre domaine sont à nouveau mis en avant dans la Revue du Vin de France. À l’honneur, notre cuvée de Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Les Cailloux Rouge 2021 ! Une belle reconnaissance de notre expertise dans l'art de la vinification. Merci à eux pour cet article. Retrouvez ci-dessous l'article présent dans la...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-10-04

Harvest 2023: A vintage with high expectations!

This year, the harvest at Domaine André Brunel began at the end of August and finished at the end of September! The harvest promises to be a high quality vintage , rich in flavour! Beginning of the 2023 harvest They started earlier this year compare to previous vintages: August 23 rd : start of the harvest with our...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-09-05

How do you keep a bottle of wine open ?

Everybody must have found himself one evening with an open bottle, the question being: what can we do to save the wine as long as possible? But also in the best conditions! André Brunel’s estate is giving you some secrets to do it. Elements that influence the preservation We often say that we can keep an open...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-08-01

How to recognize a wine thanks to the label ?

To make sure you have chosen a good wine, you have to be careful: there are many traps! If unluckily no wine merchant nor producer is used to advice you, the best way is to learn how to read bottle labels. To do so, it’s necessary to know the main wine areas as well as the different grape varieties which are...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-07-04

How to choose a wine ?

This is a question that seems to be as existential as “to be or not to be?” “What’s the meaning of life?” or “Are we alone in the universe?” It could make you die of fear when you want to impress your parents-in-law at a diner or a meeting or treat all your friend for a great...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-06-06

Does the white wine keep you awake ?

For a celebration (birthday, anniversary,…), a sophisticated dinner or just to relax after a hard day, a glass of a good cool white wine is always welcome. Nevertheless, we suspect it to prevent from sleeping. André Brunel will help you to analyse this question. First of all, why the white wine more than another...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-05-23

Parution dans la Revue du Vin de France

La Revue du Vin de France, met à nouveau à l'honneur les vins de notre domaine. Cette fois c'est la Cuvée Châteauneuf-du-Pape, les Cailloux Blanc 2022 . Bel hommage à notre savoir-faire viticole et à notre histoire. Merci à eux pour cette belle mise en avant. Retrouvez ci-dessous l'article présent dans la revue :

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-05-22

Côtes-du-Rhône Sabrine 2022 - James Suckling : 92/100

We received a score of 92/100 for our Côtes-du-Rhône Sabrine 2022! "Lots of strawberries, cherries, mocha and sweet spices. Medium- to- full-bodied with velvety tannins. Round, layered and creamy with plenty of berry and chocolate character on the palate and a vivid, fruity finish. Drink or hold." Press review -...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-05-22

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge 2021 - James Suckling : 94/100

We received a score of 94/100 for our Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge 2021 ! "A velvety, layered and restrained red with dark cherries, crushed raspberries, wild strawberries, baking spices and dried herbs on the nose. Full body with finely grained tannins. The balance and harmony is impressive for the vintage,...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-05-10

Le domaine André Brunel inaugure son chai de vinification - Terre de Vins

Le domaine André Brunel est à nouveau mis à l’honneur, dans le magazine Terre de Vins. Une nouvelle occasion pour nous de mettre en valeur notre nouveau chai de vinification, ainsi que notre savoir-faire viticole depuis 1749. Merci à Marie-Pierre Delpeuch pour ce bel article : C’est un bel outil qui va...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-05-10

Le domaine André-Brunel inaugure son nouveau chai de vinification - Le Dauphiné

C’est au tour du journal Le Dauphiné de mettre en avant le Domaine André Brunel. L’occasion pour nous de vous partager une nouvelle page de notre histoire avec l’inauguration de notre nouveau chai de vinification. Merci à Charles COLIN pour cette belle mise en avant : Jeudi 6 avril, Fabrice Brunel et...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-05-10

Nouveau chai de vinification au domaine Brunel – La Provence

À l’occasion de l’inauguration de notre nouveau chai de vinification, un article a été dédié à notre domaine dans le quotidien La Provence. L’occasion nous nous de vous faire part de notre histoire et de notre expertise en tant que vignoble. Bel hommage à notre savoir-faire viticole et à notre...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-05-02

Which wines with seafood ?

What is the best wine for a seafood tasting? If the André Brunel estate, producing Châteauneuf-du-Pape aoc, can not offer you a miracle recipe (since it does not exist), it can nevertheless offer you all our tips and tricks to know how to perfectly marry your wine with seafood, shells, oysters or trays. Whether in...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-04-11

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux 2020 - James Suckling : 94/100

Complex nose of dry earth, candied orange peel and licorice, also a touch of leather. The red berry character only emerges after plenty of aeration. It’s the amazing texture of the expansive yet delicate palate that makes this stand out. The interplay of super-fine tannins and restrained richness is spot-on...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-04-11

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée 2020 - James Suckling : 94/100

It would be hard to imagine a more completely typical Chateauneuf than this beauty. Wonderful balance of restrained richness, delicate spicy and earthy aromas alongside the red fruit and candied orange peel character. Stunning interplay of fine tannins and fruit at the long finish with a cookie-like texture and lovely...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-04-11

Côtes-du-Rhône Cuvée Sommelongue 2021 - James Suckling : 91/100

In spite of the ample ripeness and full red fruit aromas this is a relatively cool and restrained style of Cotes-du-Rhone. Very solid tannins anchor this, giving the finish weight and warmth without making the wine feel a jot heavy. Drink or hold. Score: 91 Points 13 Mar, 2023 - James Suckling Download Shelftalker -...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-04-11

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Les Cailloux 2021 - James Suckling : 94/100

This expertly crafted white Chateauneuf is delightful from the moment you sniff the orange blossom, fresh almond and white peach bouquet. The generous palate has modest acidity but excellent structure that enables it to effortlessly carry the richness and creaminess. Then comes the uplifting freshness at the long...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-04-11

Côtes-du-Rhône Villages Cuvée Sabrine 2019 - James Suckling : 93/100

With excellent harmony of a generous body with fine tannins and restrained black fruit character, plus notes of spice, licorice and leather, this is a very impressive wine for the appellation. Bottle age has already given it some mature character and with this structure it has many years of life ahead of it. Long,...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-04-11

Côtes-du-Rhône Cuvée Est-Ouest 2020 - James Suckling : 91/100

An expansive, warm and spicy Cotes-du-Rhone with stacks of baking spice character plus dried cherry fruit. Although this is anything but light, the balance of ripeness and crisp tannins is very satisfying. Long, spicy finish. Drink now. Score: 91 Points 13 Mar, 2023 - James Suckling Download Shelftalker - Press review

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-04-11

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Cuvée Centenaire 2019 - James Suckling : 96/100

A rich and very concentrated Chateauneuf with impeccable balance between the huge fine tannins, red fruits, candied orange peel and dried flowers. So powerful, but not a jot overbearing, this is only just beginning to reveal its enormous depths. Extremely dense long finish. Wait long enough and this will taste like...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-04-04

Wine Storage

Some advice for storing wine in the best possible way: Whether it concerns experienced professionals or occasional amateurs : all will agree about this statement : the storage of your wines : Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Sancerre or Châteauneuf-du-Pape…is a key step to be able to make them as good as possible, to taste...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-03-07

How to recognize a good wine at tasting ?

Always the same dilemma for a meal with friends, or event to celebrate, or a meal in a good restaurant. We often propose to choose and bring a bottle of wine, and each time, the same question : How to choose a good wine without making a mistake? The factthat wine is an important part of our culture imposes an...

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-02-07

Châteauneuf-du-Pape 1985 : an exceptional vintage

Each year offers its share of surprises in the wine world, vintages are part of them. At André Brunel estate, we give you our opinion on Châteauneuf-du-Pape 1985 vintage. 1985 : a recommanded year This vintage is known by the wine lovers as being an oustanding vintage thanks to a sunshine wich lasted up to the fall as...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2023-01-17

Parution dans la Revue du Vin de France

La Revue du Vin de France, dans son édition de février 2023, met à l’honneur la Cuvée Centenaire 2019, Châteauneuf-du-Pape . Bel hommage à notre savoir-faire viticole et à notre histoire. Merci à eux pour cette belle mise en avant. Retrouvez ci-dessous l'article présent dans la revue :

Blog Vin

Published : 2023-01-03

Vintages and best vintages of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an AOC from the Rhône valley. The main grape varieties are mainly : grenache, syrah and mourvèdre, the other specificity is a soil covered with rolled pebbles, plus the favorable climate of the south of France. These éléments contribute to make it an exceptional wine with a high aging potential...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-12-20

Which wine to offer to a connoisseur ?

Offering a wine is often a brainteaser, but a good wine remains a must when we want to please a connoisseur or a wine lover. Nevertheless, how to choose without making a mistake? What are the occasions to offer a good wine? Should we favor some regions or some vintages? Who can best advise us? With André Brunel estate...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-12-06

Watering the vines: a practical and theoretical point

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-11-15

When to use red wine in cooking ?

Red wine is the favorite drink of the French no wonder since it is one of the jewels of our gastronomy and of our wine-growing tradition. But wine is not only used for the tasting pleasure of the wine. Indeed for centuries red wine has been an ingredient of many local recipes. Meat or fish poached in red wine without...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2022-11-07

Parution dans le magazine Terre de Vins

Le domaine André Brunel est mis à l’honneur, en ce début d'automne, dans le magazine Terre de Vins. Une nouvelle occasion de mettre en valeur notre savoir-faire viticole au fil des années. Merci à Jean-Michel Brouard pour ce bel article : Ce domaine très ancien de Châteauneuf-du-pape poursuit inlassablement...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-11-02

Malolactic fermentation: how does it works?

« What does the bottle matter as long as we are drunk... » (Alfred de Musset) French land has always been famous for its alcohols and more particularly its viticulture it had for a long time. To turn grapes into an alcoholic drink, the winegrower, such ads André Brunel, must put the fruit through many complex stages...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-10-18

Alcoholic fermentation in wine

In vino veritas… If wine is so successful in the various human civilizations, it is partly because of its alcoholic side. Alcohol which must be consumed in moderation makes people happy, participate in festive moments, in major life events: Champagne for a wedding. Châteauneuf-du-Pape great vintage to celebrate...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-10-04

What are sulfites used for in Wine ?

Our time is more and more aware of the ecological stakes, we regularly speak about the organic agriculture, and, by extension, of the famous “organic” cuvées. This question keeps being at the center of the debates. Far from shortcuts, here we are going to take stock of its role. What are They? They are...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2022-09-28

Parution dans le nouveau Bettane & Desseauve 2023

Le domaine André Brunel est salué dans le très prestigieux guide annuel des vins Bettane & Desseauve 2023. Une nouvelle occasion de mettre en valeur notre savoir-faire viticole ainsi que nos vins (Blanc, Rouge et Centenaire) qui ont su trouver leur public au fil des années. Merci à eux pour cette belle mise en avant...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2022-09-14

Le vignoble André Brunel, est dans le Guide des meilleurs Vins de France 2023 !

C’est le point presse de cette rentrée 2022 ! Retrouvez ci-dessous les commentaires du Guide des meilleurs Vins de France 2023, sorti cette semaine. Merci à eux pour cette belle mise en avant de notre travail.

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-09-13

Harvest 2022 with a lot of promises

They started on August 16 after our team of harvesters had been trained in a careful sorting in order to enter the cellar only the most beautiful berries. We started with our Roussannes who are on the plot of Serres in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, then we continued with a plot of Grenache blanc located in the commune of...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-08-02

Véraison in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

When the grapes change from color green to its so beautiful characteristic purple color it’s the opportunity to meet for a magnificent family and friendly medieval reminding the oldest traditions of the land. The veraison: essential for a red Châteauneuf-du-Pape vintage. The veraison is a crucial period for our...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-07-12

2022, the first vintage in our new cellar

We have chosen a high-end stainless steel vat from a French company in order to gain in precision on the control of fermentation temperatures and facilitate their cleaning in order to reduce our water consumption. The walls are massive stones of the Luberon to limit the use of air conditioning and reduce our energy...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-06-07

How to choose your wine cellar ?

Amateurs find themselves, one day or the other, confronted with the issue of storing their bottles, gleaned from their tastings, exhibitions or meetings with winegrowers on their domains , such as that of André Brunel. For preservation , aging, tasting or storage, an amateur must have a tool worthy of the name. There...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-05-05

Which food pairing with a Châteauneuf-du-Pape ?

Red and white (AOC) Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines have an asset, in addition to their world renown, to be a southern wine of the Rhône valley, which has the specificity to be served with many dishes thanks to the great subtility of its flavors. Which best harmony between food and this wine? André Brunel’s estate...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2022-04-23

In Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the vine becomes a source of energy - Le Figaro

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-04-05

Visit a winery in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Visiting Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard allows you to learn more about this so special terroir and while walking in the vineyards to understand the important role of the rolled pebbles, specificity of the appellation. Cellar visit A visit of the André Brunel’s estate would not be complete without a visit of the...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-03-01

Châteauneuf-du-Pape ine pairings: vegetarian dishes

Nowadays we are conscious that for the good of the planet we will have to consume less and less animal protection protein. However, a gourmet and greedy alternative exists just as tasty and which can be a source of protein: vegetables, raw, cooked, dietetic or gourmet, carpaccio style, winter or summer ones,...

Blog Vin

Published : 2022-02-01

Drone in agriculture: why to use them ?

Nowadays, the more a professional in the field of art, cinema, culture or even construction would not think it possible to achieve precision and performance as easily as with the use of a drone. This technological tool presents eclectic uses that make it an ally of choice for a farmer wanting to improve his yields or...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2022-01-01

Le nouveau Bettane + Desseauve 2022

André Brunel's wines always combine generosity, finesse of tannins and freshness. The very refined white has a fairly large share of clairette. In red, Grenache dominates with a share of Mourvèdre. Finally, the centenary cuvée is made from very old Grenache vines planted on the Mont-Redon plateau.

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2021-12-27

Guide des meilleurs vins de France 2022

Little known in France, André Brunel is nevertheless part of the elite of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. It produces racy wines, whose major assets are minerality and refinement. The whole range is very regular. The classic Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a quiet force, full of finesse and nuance. In great years, the...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2021-11-05

Jeb - Dunnuck Cailloux white 2020 : 93/100

This estate makes a terrific white, and their 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc is well worth seeking out. Made in a fresh, medium-bodied, clean, crisp style, it still has ample texture as well as textbook apple, citrus, sappy herbs, and chalky mineral-like aromas and flavors. It's just beautifully done, and I suspect it...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2021-11-03

Les Cailloux 2019 - Jeb Dunnuck : 95/100

The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape is flat-out brilliant, and readers looking for an incredible wine that will drink well for upwards of two decades should back up the truck on this one. Incredible black cherry, Provençal garrigue, pepper, and licorice notes give way to a full-bodied, perfectly balanced, seamless 2019 with...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2021-11-03

Les Cailloux 2020 - Jeb Dunnuck : 92-94/ 100

Looking first at the classic 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape, it's based on 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah and Cinsault. I love the bouquet, which is loaded with ripe black cherries, roasted herbs, licorice, and pepper-like nuances. This carries to a rich, medium to fullbodied, wonderfully balanced, layered...

Blog Vin

Published : 2021-11-02

Our Harvest 2021 like you were here !

A look back at our 2021 harvest. A promising year ahead! The April frost did not finally take over our grapes, the quality of the 2021 vintage is indeed at the rendezvous with ripe berries, providing a fair balance between concentration and acidity. Discover the other side of the scene and the secrets of the Domaine...

Blog Vin

Published : 2021-09-08

The harvest 2021 have started !

The 2021 harvest began this Thursday, September 2 by the roussannes of Châteauneuf du Pape! Despite the frost in early April and volumes that should be in sharp decline, the quality is at the rendezvous with ripe berries and a very good balance concentrati

Blog Vin

Published : 2021-09-08

It's mooving at the André Brunel Winery !

Start of the construction of our new winery. The walls should be in place at the end of December and the winery part at the end of May 2022 to be fully operational for the 2022 harvest. We will keep you informed of progress.

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2021-08-17

Les Cailloux 2010 - Jeb Dunnuck : 95/100

A wine I wish I'd bought more of, the 2010Châteauneuf Du Pape continues to blow me awayevery time I taste it. Lots of ripe red and black fruits, licorice, roasted herbs, and assorted meaty nuances all define the nose, and it's medium to full-bodied, pure, elegant, and just a stunning Châteauneuf du Pape in the sweet...

Blog Vin

Published : 2021-05-04

« After the frost hope ! »

When we work with nature we realize that we do not control everything! Unfortunately our Chateauneuf-du-Pape vineyard was not spared by this episode of frost. Two parcels were particularly affected. The vines we have in Côtes-du-Rhône have been spared overall. We stand in solidarity with our confreres who, for some,...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-11-26

Les Cailloux mis à l'honneur dans le Guide Vert de la Revue du Vin de France 2021

Parmi les trois meilleurs vins blancs de l'appellation ! Le Domaine tient vraiment son rang dans les deux couleurs. « Peu connu en France, André Brunel fait pourtant partie de l’élite de l’appellation Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Il produit des vins racés, qui ont pour atouts majeurs la minéralité et le...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-10-06

Centenaire 2019 - Jeb Dunnuck : 97-99/100

The flagship cuvée is the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Centenaire and it comes all from the Farguerol lieu-dit located in the northern part of the appellation. It’s normally partially destemmed and brought up mostly in concrete tank. It has a touch of the finesse found in the classic cuvée yet turns up the...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-10-06

Les Cailloux 2018 - Jeb Dunnuck : 93/100

I‘ve always loved the base cuvée from this reference point estate and I still remember being blown away by, the 1990 when I was just starting to learn about wine. The 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape checks in as 60% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 15% Syrah, and 5% Cinsault that was all destemmed and had a traditional...

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Published : 2020-10-05

Centenaire 2019 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 94/100

A gentle, elegant, refined style, very well balanced with lovely pinpoint acidity and tapered finish. Not showing much complexity for now, but should be good in time. The heart of the blend is a 1.5ha plot of Grenache planted in 1889 in lieu-dit Farguerol in the north of the appellation, galets roulés over blue clay....

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-10-05

Centenaire 2016 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 94/100

A gentle, elegant, refined style, very well balanced with lovely pinpoint acidity and tapered finish. Not showing much complexity for now, but should be good in time. The heart of the blend is a 1.5ha plot of Grenache planted in 1889 in lieu-dit Farguerol in the north of the appellation, galets roulés over blue clay.

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Published : 2020-09-10

Le jour où les Cailloux devinrent une pépite - Le Figaro

La rubrique "Vins" du Figaro a récemment consacré un article particulièrement élogieux aux Cailloux Rouge 2016 : "2016 est un millésime exceptionnel pour l’appellation. Dominé par le grenache (70 %) et composé également de mourvèdre, syrah et cinsault, Les Cailloux montre une robe rubis foncé limpide. Au nez, il...

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Published : 2020-09-10

Harvest 2020 : a great vintage !

The harvest 2020 has just begun, one week in advance in comparison to last year, one month in advance if we compare with 15 years ago. The vintage seems to be a really great vintage. Quality and quantity are there. Color, tanins, concentration are truly present. The team in the vines and in the cellar is super excited...

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Published : 2020-09-01

Cailloux 2019 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski

Substantially darker and more concentrated than the 2018, thesample provided by the Brunels of their 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape shows why Lucien was excited to send it over, despite the vagaries of international shipping. Hints of thyme and lavender accent wonderfully pure black cherries on the nose, while the...

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Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 2015 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 97/100

The only vintage not to be destemmed as the destemmer broke the day before harvest! A very transparent Châteauneuf, not darkly coloured. Complex on the nose already with raspberry, cherry and almond flecks to the principal strawberry fruit alongside a smoky, lightly camphorous. Rounded, fuller in body and richer in...

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Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 2010 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 93/100

One of the 'best vintages we've had along with '98, very low yields, 15hl/ha even for the classic Châteauneuf, it was so warm, and we had coulure,' says Fabrice Brunel. This is starting to take on a little light brown edging in the glass already, meat stock and dried leaves - remarkably evolved for a 2010. A nice time...

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Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 2007 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 95/100

It was 'warm, but not as warm as 2010, which was a bit too warm,' says Fabrice Brunel. Not too much coulure, so more grapes, leading to greater acidity and freshness. It's currently less evolved than the 2010, and showing some spicy, woody hints on the nose. Generous, but not heavy, on the palate with very silky...

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Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 2006 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 96/100

Not one of the most well-known vintages, 'there aren't so many cuvées spéciales in 2006, but my dad decided to make it as the wine was outstanding,' says Fabrice Brunel. This is at a perfect state of maturity now - an enticing mélange of fruit and mature notes like dried flowers and dried leaves, a touch of liquorice...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 2005 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 93/100

This is 'similar to the '07 in terms of vintage, very warm,' says Fabrice Brunel. In the glass it still looks very young, deeply ruby red. Aromatically it's not the cleanest by today's standards, a little animal hint, slightly roasted, with a touch of benevolent decay in the background. Rounded, generous and juicy....

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 2003 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 92/100

In 2003 'it was 28, even 29 degrees in the night, so the grapes didn't have time to cool down,' says Fabrice Brunel. This is a little bit cloudy in the glass and has a very evolved nose, the fruit is quite jammy and very autumnal, with aromas of decayed leaves, leaf mulch. Very full-bodied, with some cassis fruit on...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 2000 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 89/100

A little balsamic on the nose, a little volatile. The acidity does stick out a bit and this is not as complex as some vintages. The fruit is still present, but it's fairly simple. Feels a little tight and disjointed - in a mute phase perhaps? Leave until 2022, then try again.

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 1998- Decanter - Matt Walls : 97/100

Still deeply coloured. On the nose this is very evolved, with plenty of liquorice and lapsang souchong tea. It's a little balsamic too, with notes of sweet decay. Powerful on the palate, mouthcoating tannins with a little juiciness to them, intense and driving - crying out for a well-aged steak. This is doing exactly...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 1995 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 94/100

Much paler in colour than the dark 1998. It has an appealing touch of minty spice on the nose, and smoky fireworks. Very fine and elegant still, shapely and tapered with silky tannins, a touch of orange peel on the palate and some length still. An old wine, but still with plenty of pleasure and interest. Time to drink...

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Published : 2020-05-22

Centenaire 1989 - Decanter - Matt Walls : 98/100 : 98/100

This inaugural vintage of the Cuvée Centenaire has a different label to subsequent vintages. It's dense, juicy and fruity still, full of power and vibrancy. It has such lightness on the palate for such a powerful wine. A little balsamic touch to the finish, still with juicy, fresh, sweet tannins, and so long. Soaring,...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-05-06

Les Cailloux 2017 : 93+, Wine Advocate

2017 Les Cailloux (Reds), Lucien et André Brunel Châteauneuf du Pape "Because of coulure in the Grenache, the 2017 Châteauneuf du Pape contains less of that variety than normal, with correspondingly higher proportions of Mourvèdre and Syrah. Dark berry and spice notes mark the nose, while the full-bodied palate is...

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Published : 2020-02-13

Centenaire 2016 - Jeb Dunnuck : 94/100

I continue to think the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire lags behind past great vintages of this cuvée, yet it’s nevertheless a beautiful wine. Coming all from the northern sector of the Farguerol lieu-dit in the northern part of the appellation and all Grenache that was partially destemmed and aged in...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-01-01

Les Cailloux 2018 - Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France : 16.5/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2020-01-01

Guide des meilleurs vins de France 2020

Blog Vin

Published : 2019-10-24

The harvest 2019 is now finished !

The record is truly positive : quality of the grapes is impeccable and after the small volumes of 2017 and 2018, the quantity of 2019 is pretty good. So we are more than happy ;-) Now it’s time for the vinification work : Must pressing, winding and shedding to extract aromas, color and tanins Must density...

Blog Vin

Published : 2019-09-17

Here it is, the harvest for 2019 has just begun !

We have already harvested our roussanne and our syrah in Châteauneuf du Pape. Until now, everything goes perfectly. The quality of the grapes is perfect and the balance between tanins, color and acidity is optimum. These results come from hard work during all the season to cope with a very warm and dry weather and by...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2019-08-16

Les Cailloux 2017 - Jeb Dunnuck : 94/100

Framboise, wild strawberries, white pepper, and apple spice notes all emerge from the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape, a rich yet elegant Châteauneuf du Pape that does everything right. Medium to full-bodied, silky, and beautifully polished, it has no hard edges and just glides over the palate. This wine is never a...

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Published : 2019-08-01

Les Cailloux 1989 - Wine Avocate - Joe Czerwinski : 92/100

Although recognizably in decline, the Brunels' 1989 Chateauneuf du Pape remains a delight to drink. It's bricking in hue, with dusty aromas and scents of dried cherries, but it's still full-bodied and creamy in texture, with delicate notes of black tea, potpourri and licorice on the expansive finish.

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2019-06-11

Centenaire 2016 - 100 pts au Wine Advocate !

Voici un extrait de l’article rédigé par Joe Czerwinski, juré de Wine Advocate, dans lequel notre cuvée centenaire de 2016 vient d’obtenir l’excellente note de 100 points. « When one comes across a wine like this in a blind tasting, it's human nature to second-guess the initial reaction. Yet every...

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Published : 2019-04-04

Le Domaine Les Cailloux salué par la Revue des Vins de France

Le domaine des cailloux est aujourd’hui mis à l’honneur, dans un très bel article de la Revue des vins de France. Une occasion unique de valoriser notre savoir-faire et notre amour du vin. "Deux générations sont aujourd’hui aux commandes : André Brunel et ses chromosomes de vigneron, et son fils...

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Published : 2019-03-27

Centenaire 1995 - Jeb Dunnuck

Past its prime, the 1995 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire offers a translucent ruby color (this cuvée is never one of the most deeply colored) as well as a clear note of oxidation in its sweet kirsch, spice, herbes de Provence, truffle, and dried earth aromas and flavors. Mediumbodied, completely resolved,...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2019-01-01

Les Cailloux 2015 - Le Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France 2019

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-12-19

Les Cailloux 2016 by Niels Lillelund - 94 pts ! - Sex in a bottle ;-)

Niels Lillelund for the website jp.dk Pure juice, sweetness : sex in a bottle ;-) Incredibly flirtatious and balanced – simply too easy to drink. Lots of local charm, plenty of grenache, a wonderfully carefree wine that will make anyone fall in love with châteauneuf-du-pape. 94pts

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-12-12

Centenaire 2016 - 97+ by Niels Lillelund !

Niels Lillelund for the website jp.dk Bright as a star on a clear sky, mineral, concentrated, pure, intense, light, elegance with notes of cherries and deletable in its expression ; a brilliant wine in the making – and far from the heavy style of the past. Beautiful. 97+

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-11-01

Centenaire 2017- Decanter - Matt Walls : 97/100

First made in 1989 to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the estate, Centenaire comes from Domaine Les Cailloux's best parcel of Grenache, a small plot of 125-year-old vines in lieu-dit Fauguerol, grown on heavy clay soils. It displays inviting spice on the nose - there's surely plenty of Syrah and Mourvèdre here....

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Published : 2018-10-25

Top Value ! - 87 Points in Wine Spectator Ratings Flash - ANDRÉ BRUNEL Côtes du Rhône White La Bécassonne 2016

87 Points - ANDRÉ BRUNEL Côtes du Rhône White La Bécassonne 2016 Very fresh, with star fruit, green almond and verbena notes streaking through. Offers a flash of lemon peel on the slightly brisk finish. Drink now through 2019. 1,250 cases imported. –JM

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-10-22

Top Value - 87 Points in Wine Spectator Ratings Flash - ANDRÉ BRUNEL Grenache Vin de Pays de Vaucluse 2016

87 Points - ANDRÉ BRUNEL Grenache Vin de Pays de Vaucluse 2016 Bright and fun, with breezy raspberry and pomegranate fruit lined with light savory and tea accents. Reveals a flash of dusty tannins. Drink now. 1,500 cases imported. –JM

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-09-18

Les Cailloux 2016 : 96 points in Wine Advocate !

I've tasted many vintages of the Brunels' wines, and 2016 looks as if it will be their best ever. The 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape stood out in my blind tasting, offering incredible complexity and lightness despite being full-bodied. Roses, garrigue and dried spices accent raspberries and cherries in a wine that's...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-09-12

Cailloux blanc 2016 - 94 pts au Wine Spectator !

Racy and engaging, with a mix of fennel, chamomile and verbena notes giving this cut and lift from the start, while the core of yellow apple, melon and mirabelle plum fruit fills in behind. Shows lots of energy and range . Best from 2019 through 2024.— James Molesworth for the Wine Spectator

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-09-06

Centenaire 2016 - 100 pts au Wine Advocate !

"When one comes across a wine like this in a blind tasting, it's human nature to second-guess the initial reaction. Yet every time I went back to the wine that turned out to be the Brunels' 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Centenaire, I came away astounded by its complexity and balance . Yes, it's full-bodied, but it's...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-08-28

Les Cailloux 2016 - Jeb Dunnuck : 94/100

The 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a classic wine from this heralded estate. Kirsch, crushed flowers, spice, and hints of peppery garrigue all flow to a full-bodied, balanced, seamless 2016 that has polished tannin, a seamless texture, and no hard edges. It's going to evolve gracefully for 15-20 years. The 2016 is a...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-08-01

Les Cailloux 2016- La Revue du Vin de France : 17.5/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-08-01

Les Cailloux 2016 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 95-97/100

I've tasted many vintages of the Brunels' wines, and 2016 looks as if it will be their best ever. The 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape stood out in my blind tasting, offering incredible complexity and lightness despite being full-bodied. Roses, garrigue and dried spices accent raspberries and cherries in a wine that's...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-05-16

Cuvée Centenaire 2015 - 94pts dans le Wine Advocate !

"Although a powerful wine, it's more about elegance than sheer brawn" Unlike many luxury cuvées, L es Cailloux's 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Centenaire is not simply an example of taking the best fruit from the estate and throwing new oak at it. It is from the estate's oldest Grenache vines, with a small dose of...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 2016 - La Revue du Vin de France : 19/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 1978 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 19/20

Le nez dévoile une grande complexité, avec des épices rares, un fruité confit, des herbes aromatiques, de la truffe. La bouche est aujourd’hui racée et satinée, avec une allonge complexe. Grand vin de mémoire.

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Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 1988 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 18.5/20

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Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 1989 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 17/20

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Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 1990 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 18.5/10

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Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 1998 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 18.5/20

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Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 2006 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du France : 18/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 2005 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 17.5/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 2014 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 17/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-01-01

Centenaire 2015 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 18.5/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 2015 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 16.5/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2018-01-01

Les Cailloux 2016 - Pierre Casamayor - La Revue du Vin de France : 18/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-10-19

Centenaire 2015- Jeb Dunnuck : 95/100

The flagship 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire comes from very old Grenache vines (planted in 1889) located in the northern part of the appellation. It includes a touch of younger vine Mourvèdre and Syrah and is brought up mostly in tank. It offers more black fruits, smoked earth, licorice and meaty, beefy...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-10-19

Les Cailloux 2015- Jeb Dunnuck : 92/100

The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape (70% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre and the rest Syrah and Cinsault, aged mostly in concrete tanks) is another ethereal, complex, nuanced wine from this estate. Ripe strawberries, dried flowers, garrigue and dusty pebble/soil notes flow to a medium to full-bodied, silky, impeccably balanced 2015...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-10-01

Les Cailloux 2015 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 92/100

André Brunel's Les Cailloux has been a staple over the years, so it was great to see the 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape shine in my big blind tasting. The blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% Cinsault hasn't changed much, nor has the élevage, almost entirely in cuves béton (concrete vats). This full-bodied...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-09-26

Centenaire 2015 - 95 pts in the Wine Cellar Insider !

If silky textures and a purity of fruit are what you’re seeking, you came to the right place. Soft, polished, sensuous textures and sweetness of flavor with peppery accents and loads of kirsch on the back end are going to keep you coming back for more. The wine is made from 100% old vine Grenache. 95 Pts If you...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-09-12

Les Cailloux 2015 - 91 pts in the Wine Cellar Insider !

Sweet cherries and pepper line right up for the perfume. On the palate, the wine is fresh, forward and polished , which is a good setting for the juicy kirsch in the finish. The wine is made using a blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and 5% Cinsault To know more about the Wine Cellar Insider, visit...

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Published : 2017-08-28

Les Cailloux Blancs 2015 - 92 pts par Josh Reynolds ! - Vinous

Pale gold. Vibrant, high-pitched aromas of Meyer lemon , pear and white flowers, along with zesty mineral and ginger notes. Dry, sharply focused citrus and orchard fruit flavors show very good depth and vivacity, and a late note of bitter quinine adds bite. Closes firm and stony, displaying excellent tenacity and a...

Blog Vin

Published : 2017-08-24

Beginning of the harvest 2017 !

Beginning of the harvest 2017 with the roussanne in Châteauneuf du Pape ! Vintage 2017 seems to be a great vintage even if the quantities shouldn't be here. The answer in four weeks. Anyway, it's quite warm outside ;-)

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-04-30

Wine Enthusiast - Côtes du Rhône blanc 2015 La Bécassonne - 88 points

This is an easydrinking, harmonious blend of 50% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc and 20% Clairette. Pineapple, anise and marshmallow aromas lead into well rounded flavors of pineapple and melon. Drink now Website : www.winemag.com

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-04-23

Josh Reynolds - 2015 Domaine Les Cailloux Châteauneuf-du-Pape | 91-93 Points

Brilliant ruby. Spice- and smoke-accented aromas of cherry, dark berries and lavender pastille are complicated by a pungent suggestion of white pepper. Seamless and smooth on the palate, offering juicy black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors that deepen and become sweeter with air. A hint of candied licorice builds...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-04-20

Presentation of the 2015 vintage in Châteauneuf du Pape by Josh Reynolds

Synthèse millésime 2015 par Josh Reynolds : http://www.vinous.com #rhonewines #chateauneufdupape #domainelescailloux

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-04-13

Sommelongue in the "Best Value for money" for the Revue des Vins de France

Nez au fruit délicat. Matière fine avec des tanins souples et délicats. Un beau classique qui mise sur la finesse et non sur la puissance avec son fruit pur et harmonieux. Prix de vente au Domaine : 12€

Blog Vin

Published : 2017-04-07

Is global warming the main reason for the increase of alcool degree in the wines ?

Super article sur le réchauffement climatique et le vin: http://www.timatkin.com/articles?1770 #chateauneufdupape #globalwarming #rhonewines

Blog Vin

Published : 2017-02-08

A review of the Cuvée Centenaire 2015 by Greg Sherwood - Masters of Wine

Last week I had a wonderful opportunity to catch up with the amiable Fabrice Brunel of Domaine Les Cailloux in Chateauneuf-du-Pape in the Southern Rhone, to taste his new vintages. The CNDP Cuvee Centenaire 2015 cask sample I tasted was a beautiful, picturesque, snapshot into the final cuvee due to be released in...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-01-11

Les Cailloux 2013 - Year 2016 Ten Top Wines ! by WineSpeed

Great Châteauneuf-du-Pape has a lusciousness and beauty that is show stopping . And Les Cailloux (“The Round Rocks”) from the Brunel family is one of the best. Penetrating and intense, it rides on rich waves of ripe dark fruits, violets, and white peppery spice.There’s a wildness and energy to this...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-01-01

Les Cailloux 2014 - Le Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France 2017 : 17/20

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2017-01-01

Les Cailloux 2013 - Le Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France 2017

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2016-12-15

Les Cailloux 2014 - 17/20 dans la Revue des Vins de France!

"Il délivre un fruit d'une grande pureté avec une petite note de fraise des bois et une texture d'une grande élégance, fine et soyeuse. Un très beau vin, gracieux et raffiné " Pour plus d'informations sur la RVF : www.larvf.com Retrouvez ce vin sur Les Caves

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2016-12-01

Bécassonne 2015 listed as a "French Treasure" in Wine Spectator !

Andre Brunel Cotes du Rhone, Domaine de la Becassonne Blanc 2015 | 89 Points **listed in the Savvy Shopper section as a “French Treasure”** Fresh, with a juicy edge to the mix of plantain, green almond and yellow apple flavors. Light chamomile and verbena notes help stretch out the finish. Drink now. 1,250...

Blog Vin

Published : 2016-11-22

Le Grand Tasting Bettane et Desseauve 2016 : Les Cailloux seront présents !

Pour tous les passionnés de vin qui seront présents au Grand Tasting Bettane et Desseauve le week end prochain, nous serons au stand 74 N'hésitez pas à nous rendre visite ! Nous vous attendons nombreux pour vous faire goûter nos derniers millésimes

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Published : 2016-11-21

Salon des vins Villeneuve Lez Avignon 26 et 27 Novembre 2016

Retrouvez-nous le week-end prochain (26 et 27 Novembre) au gymnase du Mourion, avenue des Cévennes à Villeneuve lez Avignon pour le salon des vins et des gourmets organisé par le Lions Club Au menu, dégustation de vin, de fromage, de foie gras et bien plus encore Pour vous restaurer, traiteur et écailler ! Venez...

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Published : 2016-11-17

Les Cailloux 2013 - 95 points ! - A Wine to Know ! by Wine Speed

Great Châteauneuf-du-Pape has a lusciousness and beauty that is show stopping ! And Les Cailloux (“The Round Rocks”) from the Brunel family is one of the best. Penetrating and intense, it rides on rich waves of ripe dark fruits, violets, and white peppery spice. There’s a wildness and energy to this...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2016-11-10

Centenaire 2010 - 96 pts in Wine Spectator !

Centenaire 2010 - 96 points! This beauty is just hitting its stride now, with a still-robust structure that is starting to show more velvety nuance while melding with the core of dark currant preserve, warmed fig and steeped plum flavors. Lots of cocoa and tobacco notes form the backdrop, and there’s a long,...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2016-10-01

Les Cailloux 2014 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

The 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape is an outstanding, forward and charming effort that makes the most of the vintage. Made from 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% Cinsault, the wine was aged 90% in concrete tanks and the rest in very old barrels. Its medium ruby color is followed by perfumed notes of...

Blog Vin

Published : 2016-07-27

Nice press coverage on our Rasteau following a winetour in UK

Rasteau 2009 from André Brunel - A terrific value

Blog Vin

Published : 2016-05-03

Vente privée sur le Carré des Vins

Vente privée du 26 Avril au 10 Mai sur le site du Carré des Vins. Très beau site et très belle présentation du Domaine ! N'hésitez pas à aller y jeter un coup d'oeil : les dernières centenaires 2007 disponibles y sont à la vente : accès à la vente Ci-dessous la présentation du Domaine : "Bienvenue à...

Blog Vin

Published : 2016-04-15

Vivino awards Les Cailloux !

"Purely sourced from Vivino's community of more than 13 million wine drinkers, Vivino's Wine Style Awards recognize the very best - and favorite - wines from regions around the globe. This is an honor you share with less than one percent of the 100.000 wineries on Vivino and I am honored to present you a personalized...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2016-04-08

La Bécassonne 2014 - 90 pts !

"The best vintage of this cuvee to date" "Brunel's single vineyard 2014 Cotes du Rhone la Becassonne is a beautiful blend of 50% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc and 20% Clairette. Its medium-gold color is followed by outstanding notes of ripe peach, melon, pineapple and a touch of honey. Medium-bodied, rich, textured...

Blog Vin

Published : 2016-02-20

Des Cailloux et des Grappes

Notre Domaine a rejoint fin 2015 une start up dédiée à l’achat de vin sur Internet, les Grappes (www.lesgrappes.com) Le concept est novateur : les internautes intéressés par un vin peuvent poser directement des questions au producteur. Cet échange permet pour le consommateur de mieux connaître le produit acheté,...

Blog Vin

Published : 2016-02-04

What are the consequences of this mild winter for next vintage

The great advantage of having mild winters is that it’s easier to work outside for pruning, planting posts, straightening vine stocks, grinding … all done more willingly when the weather is nice! But for the rest it’s not ideal. Parasites, mushrooms and viruses have spent the winter under warm...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-12-11

Les Cailloux Blank 2014 - 93 points

Domaine André Brunel Châteauneuf-du-Pape White Les Cailloux 2014 93 points A ripe, fruit-driven style, with lush creamed apple, melon and pear flavors pumping along, inlaid with ample heather and salted butter notes. The long, juicy finish pulls everything together, with enough energy to sustain brief cellaring.–

Blog Vin

Published : 2015-11-30

Long live grass !

Compared to tillage or chemical weeding, grass covering remains the best way of obtaining topsoil, meaning with strong biological activity (from micro-organisms to worms). Its main advantage is it increases the soil bearing capacity (therefore the possibility of returning to the vineyards quicker after rain), to avoid...

Blog Vin

Published : 2015-10-30

How winemaking will cope with global warming

The major challenge that wine-making must face is the increase of alcohol content. Producing a wine under 14° is already difficult in the Rhone Valley and if the warming continues at this rate then wines will be produced at 15° or even more. However the adaptation level will be different depending on if the warming is...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-09-01

Les Cailloux 2012 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

A medium-bodied, elegant red from Brunel, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape has pretty notes of raspberries, white pepper, spice and hints of garrigue to go with a forward, delicious style on the palate. It should evolve nicely through 2022.

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-09-01

Les Cailloux 2011 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 92/100

A ripe, voluptuous effort that shows the vintage nicely, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape was the only Chateauneuf produced by Brunel in the vintage, so it received the grapes that would normally go into the cuvee Centenaire. Mostly tank-aged Grenache (there's 17% Mourvedre and 13% Syrah and other permitted varieties), it...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-09-01

Les Cailloux 2010 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 93/100

Darker in color than both the '11 and '12, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape offers full-bodied richness and depth to go with loads of darker fruits, crushed rock-like minerality, roasted herbs and licorice. Beautifully concentrated, textured, with ripe tannin, it should be at its best from 2016-2025.

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-09-01

Les Cailloux 2009 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 94/100

The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blockbuster. Deep ruby-colored and a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and the rest other permitted varieties, it offers up a big, sweet bouquet of kirsch, blackberries, ground herbs, pepper and licorice. Full-bodied, textured and layered, it has terrific fruit intensity, no hard...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-09-01

Les Cailloux 2008 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

One heck of a wine in the vintage, Brunel's 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape reveals a medium ruby color to go with Burgundian notes of black cherries, cedar, pepper and light spices. Medium-bodied, lightly textured and graceful, it excels on its elegance and purity and will drink nicely for another 4-5 years.

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-09-01

Les Cailloux 2007 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 95/100

I think the finest vintage for the classic cuvee ever, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape is a sensational blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, 12% Syrah and the balance other permitted varieties. Aged mostly in tank, it offers a massive array of smoked herbs, lavender, black raspberries, toasted nuts, truffle and...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-09-01

Les Cailloux 2006 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 92/100

Another wine showing beautifully, was the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape. Made from 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and the rest Syrah and Cinsault, it has a classic and Provencal bouquet of caramelized meats, blackberries, garrigue, honeysuckle and smoke. Ripe, full-bodied, textured and layered on the palate, with both...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-09-01

Les Cailloux 1995 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

Much more elegant and streamlined than the exuberant 1998 (the 1998 was reviewed in the '98 Chateauneuf du Pape retrospective article), the ruby/orange-rimmed 1995 Chateauneuf du Pape still possesses surprising density and concentration to go with mature notes of cured meats, pepper, dried underbrush, figs and spice....

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Published : 2015-08-25

2015, an exceptional vintage ?

The 2015 weather conditions have been nearly impeccable for now – warm and dry to help the grapes ripen better and keeping them in a most healthy state, rain in sufficient quantities to maintain good hydration of the vines and preventing any drying out. It must be said that 2015 has really gotten off to a most...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-08-01

Les Cailloux 1998 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 92/100

Not one of winemaker Andre Brunel's favorite vintages (although I'm a fan), the 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape reveals a surprisingly youthful, lively ruby color to the rim to go with classic notes of dried Provencal herbs, cured meats, kirsch, leather and exotic spices. These carry to a full-bodied, ripe, concentrated...

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Published : 2015-07-21

The horse – a marketing tool or a genuine interest for the Estate

For some years the horse has made a remarkable come-back on wine estates. Users are nevertheless either accused of being crazy or nostalgic or accused of using them for communication purposes. What is really all about ? It’s true that on medium-sized estates (over 20 hectares) and on low value-added plots, a...

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Published : 2015-05-29

Bag In Box : a bright future !

Bag-in-Box sales has been on a steady upward trend for several years in France and just like bottles, they are subject to an increasing request on behalf of consumers to reduce their sulphite content. Sulphites are mainly used as antibacterial and antioxidant properties and are therefore essential to maintain a long...

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Published : 2015-03-31

Resistant grape varieties : are there the ecological future of vineyards ?

Two methods mainly exist today to fight against vineyard diseases: Using chemical products to eradicate the pathogen (mushroom, larva, butterfly, etc…) Using various growing methods allowing vines to fight more efficiently against these external attacks: ground covers, crushing of vine shoots, etc ... which...

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Published : 2015-03-16

Wine Express.com : a nice video on Châteauneuf du Pape André Brunel 2010

"A very nice Châteauneuf du Pape with aromas of liquorice, black berries, chocolate. Chewy in texture, nice backbone, very appealling. Keep some bottles away and drink some now. Enjoy !". For the full video : www.wineexpress.com

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Published : 2015-03-10

Imbibe UK : Sommelongue and Cailloux tasting in London

"With 22 ha in Chateauneuf du Pape and 11ha in Cotes du Rhone, winemaker Andre Brunel makes wines from grapes grown on his estate, as well as those in neighbouring vineyards that he tends. The Cotes du Rhone Domaine Sommelongue 2012 consists of 85% Grenache and a splash of Cinsault, Mouvedre and Syrah, all taken from...

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Published : 2015-02-20

Pruning - A strategic work in the vineyard

In wine-making, pruning is an essential phase as the yield and quality of the next harvest is wholly-dependant. It’s also one of the most laborious steps as it’s done during the winter when the wines are dormant. The pruning principle is easy, you have to “shorten” and “assemble”,...

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Published : 2015-02-01

Les Cailloux 2005 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 91/100

One of my favorite producers, Domaine Les Cailloux’s 2005 Châteauneuf du Pape is a terrific effort that’s hard to resist today. Checking in as a blend of 70% Grenache, 17% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and the rest Cinsault, aged mostly in tank, if gives up a ripe, sexy and medium to full-bodied style to go with...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2015-02-01

Les Cailloux 2004 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

One of my favorite producers, Domaine Les Cailloux’s 2005 Châteauneuf du Pape is a terrific effort that’s hard to resist today. cChecking in as a blend of 70% Grenache, 17% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and the rest Cinsault, aged mostly in tank, if gives up a ripe, sexy and medium to full-bodied style to go with...

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Published : 2015-01-14

How to tackle the decrease of the yields in the Rhone Valley

In 10 years, the average yield of the Côtes du Rhône has decreased by nearly 10 hl/ha (which corresponds to a volume decrease of nearly 25% between 2004 and 2014) . This decrease - mainly caused by global warming and by certain choices taken by the winemakers – undermines numerous farms. In order to stop this...

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Published : 2014-12-18

Centenaire and Cailloux Centenaire in Swedden

From Sweddish Journalist, Tom Pavan . Find all his articles on his blog The day before BraVins Assortment tasting, they arranged a tasting with Fabrice Brunel from Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel). Fabrice, son of André Brunel, turned out to be a really charming guy with a lot to tell. As a small appetizer...

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Published : 2014-12-10

Global Warming and it's impact on wine

Being a weather-dependent activity, wine-growing is particularly impacted by global warming . We notice harvesting is carried out two to three weeks earlier compared to the last century, violent climate-related incidents (frost, hail, coulure*, drought …) are multiplying and increasingly disturbing the work of...

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Published : 2014-12-03

Domaine André Brunel - Côtes du Rhône white La Bécassonne - 88 points in Wine Advocate !

Domaine André Brunel - Côtes du Rhône white La Bécassonne - 88 points in Wine Advocate ! "Always a superb value, Brunel's 2013 Côtes du Rhône La Becassonne comes from vineyards located outside the town of Sorgues, from 40-year-old vines, and is a blend of 50% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc and 20% Clairette. Sporting a...

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Published : 2014-11-26

Les Cailloux Rouges 2012 - 91 points in Wine Spectator !

Les Cailloux Rouges 2012 - 91 points in Wine Spectator ! "Silky and perfumy, with bergamot, red currant, warm raspberry coulis and rooibos tea notes all woven together. A chalky, minerally spine frames the finish, revealing a lingering star anise accent. Drink now through 2025"

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Published : 2014-11-19

Les Cailloux Blanc 2013 - 91 points in Wine Advocate !

Les Cailloux Blanc 2013 - 91 points in Wine Advocate ! "A forward, medium-bodied and perfumed effort, Brunel's 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc (85% Roussanne and 15% Grenache Blanc) gives up classy citrus blossom, white flower and hints of minerality. Coming all from Les Serres lieu-dit in the southern part of the...

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Published : 2014-11-12

Les Cailloux Rouges 2012 - 91 points in Wine Advocate !

Les Cailloux Rouges 2012 - 91 points in Wine Advocate ! "A lighter weight, elegant and seamless example of this cuvee, the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape exhibits beautiful sweet cherry, raspberry, crushed flowers and hints of garrigue. A blend of 70% Grenache, 1% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and 3% Cinsault that was 80% destemmed...

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Published : 2014-11-05

Les Cailloux Blanc 2013 - Coup de coeur Gault & Millau !

Les Cailloux blancs 2013 - 16.5 sur 20 et coup de cœur de la rédaction "Ce gaillard roboratif est puissamment disposé. Les senteurs de bourgeon d'acacia, de narcisse, de pêche de vigne et de violette intenses le hissent au firmament aromatique. En bouche, le nectar est affable, le grain est fondant, les lies fines...

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Published : 2014-10-01

Les Cailloux 2013 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 86-89/100

I'm hoping I caught this sample on a bad day, as Brunel's 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape wasn't offering much charm on this occasion. Lightly textured and moderately concentrated, with notes of garrigue, spice and peppery herbs, it has bright acidity and firm tannin. This estate is normally extremely consistent, so I'd...

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Published : 2014-09-11

Et c'est parti pour les vendanges 2014 !

Et voilà ! C'est parti pour les vendanges 2014 ;-) Ce matin, nous avons ramassé les roussannes pour le Châteauneuf du Pape blanc et jeudi - vendredi, nous attaquons les syrahs, un peu plus précoces que les grenaches. Plus qu'à espérer trois semaines de beau temps !!

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Published : 2014-09-02

Les Cailloux Blancs 2013 - 92 points in Wine Spectator !

92 points ! A must have vintage ! Shows a rounded, plump feel, with creamy-edged yellow apple, melon and heather notes backed by hints of brioche and salted butter on the finish. Flattering in feel, but pure and well-defined. Drink now through 2015

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2014-08-29

Les Cailloux Blank 2013 by Philippe Faure Brac and Paolo Basso - World Best Sommeliers

Visual aspect : buttercup yellow colour, crystal-clear, limpid. Nose : discreet first nose, mentholated. More spicy second nose, with curry aromas, then crystallised citrus. Palate : supple first taste, fatness, discreet acidity. Crystallized fruits, spicy notes in retro-olfaction. Match with food : pike quenelles....

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Published : 2014-08-08

Point Météo avant le départ en vacances

Pour l'instant le millésime 2014 en Châteauneuf du Pape s'annonce bien. Contrairement aux deux précédents millésimes, les vignes sont chargées en raisin. Ce qui devrait au minimum permettre d'utiliser les pleines capacités de nos caves. L'hiver s'est montré relativement clément : la température a rarement (voire...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2014-07-25

Les Cailloux 2010 by Philippe Faure Brac and Paolo Basso - World Best Sommeliers

Visual aspect : black, garnet-red shades. Nose : powerful first nose, animal, blackcurrant, coffee. Subtle second nose, with character, aromas of red fruits, peony. Palate : straight, complex, fine tanins, flavours of peony, red fruits. Present woodiness which promises a long ageing potential. Match with food :...

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Published : 2014-07-03

Indigeneous Yeasts - Myth or Reality

The ISV (Institute of Vine and Wine Sciences) just published the results of a study regarding over 200 wines vinified in 2012 and whose objective was to measure the genetic variety of yeasts used. As a reminder, yeasts are the micro-organisms in charge of alcoholic fermentation of wine by transforming the sugar into...

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Published : 2014-06-18

An alternative to chemical weeding : ground covering under the rows

Wine-growing today has adopted an overall approach to reduce plant-protectant products – most plots which at one time were sprayed with weed-killer have decreased to around 15% in 7 years! One of the most-used strategies to accelerate this decrease is the implementation of a natural ground cover called...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2014-06-12

Cailloux Blank - 2013 Vintage - Great Success

Comments of The white Cailloux 2013 : “Fragrance of pine, resin and the Garrigue. Deliciously full, still-fermenting taste with a hint of Comice pear. Great volume”

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-06-05

2014 Vintage - A good start

Compared to 2013 with relatively difficult weather conditions (rain and cold in May, hot and dry in the summer), 2014 is looking much better: the phreatic surfaces were sufficiently filled this past winter thanks to abundant rainfalls and March and April were relatively dry preventing the presence of diseases (downy...

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-05-29

Cailloux Tasting 1998 and 2006 by MisterNordin

MisterNordin, sweddish blogguer, gives its impression among 1998 and 2006 Cailloux vintages. Follow the link

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-05-14

Are white wines good for laying down?

Yes!!! Just think about Sauternes which can be kept for fifty years or even more or Jura wine where some bottles which are over a century-old, still have a remarkable freshness when opened. Red wines are said to age well, apparently due to their tannins which provide the required structure. Being that white wines have...

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Published : 2014-04-30

Food and Wine Pairing: the base rules

The first rule to always remember when looking to pair a wine with a dish is … to make your guests happy !! For example, if one of them don’t like very sweet wines – the classic association with foie gras - it’s better to serve a slightly smooth white wine. The second rule is to trust …...

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Published : 2014-04-21

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - 2011 Vintage - 94 points !!

Wine Advocate tasted again the Cailloux 2011 and gives 94 points !! "While there was no Cuvee Centenaire produced, Brunel’s 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape is certainly one of the stars of the vintage. A blend of 70% Grenache, 17% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and 3% Cinsault, with the Syrah aged in older barrel and everything...

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-04-15

When should I drink my wine?

Whenever you feel like it ;-) The major function of a wine is to be drunk, not to be stored for dozens of years on a shelf until it becomes basically … undrinkable. It is however true that wine evolves with age and there is a rather large time scale for when it’s “at its finest”. Just one...

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Published : 2014-04-14

Le vin reconnu patrimoine de la France

Le Sénat a reconnu aujourd'hui que le vin "fait partie du patrimoine" de la France. Enfin !!. Suite de l'article ici

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-04-10

Cailloux Tasting by "les 5 du vin"

Interesting and precise paper on the tasting of four estates in Châteauneuf du Pape : Clos du Mont Olivet, Clos du Caillou, Domaine Jean Royer et Les Cailloux : Châteauneuf du Pape - En hommage à leurs pères

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-04-02

Les Printemps de Châteauneuf les 5 et 6 Avril

This week-end takes place the fifth edition of the Châteauneuf du Pape Wine fair : more than 85 estates will present their latest vintage. The estate will be booth A13 Hope to see you ! For more information : Winefair Website

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Published : 2014-03-31

Next Step for the Wine Tour in the US : after Boulder, Washington

Interesting article among the Centenaire 2003 by a journalist met in Washington DC. For more information : www.hogsheadwine.com

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-03-26

US Wine Tour : journalist feedback

Here a link to an article of 303 magazine written during a fine wine tasting in The city of Boulder last week For more information : 303 magazine

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-03-20

Have vines growing on wire: it’s obvious … but why?

Vines growing on wire, or trellising, is common practice all over France. There are numerous advantages to trellising: It helps the leaves be exposed to the sun. Photosynthesis is more active which promotes a higher concentration of sugar, For the “lazy” grape varieties like Syrah (whose shoots flop down,...

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Published : 2014-03-06

Green harvesting: what is it and what does it do?

The term “green harvesting” defines all the operations regarding growing vines. More simply between the end of winter and the harvesting. It’s notably used to allow grapes to mature well, to control the yield and to reduce the risk of rot spreading. Particularly noticeable are: Work on the leaves,...

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Published : 2014-02-27

Sulphites and wine: but why so much loathing

What is most often referred to under the barbaric name of “sulphite” designates the sulphur dioxide or SO2 . This is produced naturally by alcoholic fermentation (transformation of sugar into alcohol by the yeasts) to about 10 to 30 mg/l, a “normal” wine containing about 40 to 60 mg/l when...

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Published : 2014-02-17

Bottling of 2013 Vintage

Okay, it’s done: the Domaine’s white Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine for 2013 is bottled! The procedure was resolutely respected: wake-up at 5 in the morning to prepare the machine, wine-tasting at 6:30 while listening to the neighbour’s cockerel singing away and then bottling until 4pm. And it all happened...

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Published : 2014-02-13

Let grass grow in the vineyards: Why? Part 2

Grass covering must be undertaken with precision to avoid too much competition with the vines and therefore overly-diminishing the harvest. There are several options open for wine-makers depending on the objectives sought-after: the surface area wanted in the rows: solely in the middle of the rows (meaning between...

Blog Vin

Published : 2014-02-05

Vertical tasting of the Centenaire Cuvée in Denmark

As for my trip to Denmark, I was lucky enough to lead a guided vertical tasting session of the Centenary cuvée along with some experienced connoisseurs. In fact it was a great opportunity for me to taste old wines years going back to 1998 or 1990 which my father has jealously kept locked away up until now. Centenary...

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Published : 2014-01-30

Let grass grow in the vineyards: Why? Part 1

In more recent years, when passing through wine-growing regions, you’ve undoubtedly noticed that more and more vineyards seem to be invaded by grass. This is not synonymous with abandoned vineyards – on the contrary! This practice is being more frequently undertaken by wine-growers endeavouring to produce...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2014-01-18

Josh Raynolds quotation for 2012 vintage

2012 Les Cailloux Rouge 90 - 92 points Bright ruby. Fresh raspberry and cherry on the nose, with a mineral nuance adding vivacity. A fresh, energetic Chateauneuf, with lively red fruit and floral pastille flavors, silky texture and zesty mideral cut. Favors finesse over power and finishes sweet, focused and long

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2014-01-18

Josh Raynolds quotation for 2011 vintage

2011 Les Cailloux Rouge 92 points Brilliant ruby-red. Spicy red berry preserve and floral aromas are complemented by white pepper and smoky minerals. Fresh raspberry, cherry and candied lavander on the palate, with tangy acidity adding lift. Elegant, precise Chateauneuf with excellent finishing clarity and intense...

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Published : 2014-01-15

To decant or not to decant: that is the question

Knowing if a wine should be decanted, and if so, for how long, is a question which we’ve all asked ourselves at least once during our life-time. Below you’ll find some possible answers. The decanting process (or decanting) of wine is used to prevent guests receiving deposit from the bottle bottom, in their...

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Published : 2013-12-23

Wine-tasting with Idealwine at GrandTasting 2013

An unforgettable moment tasting several bottles of Centenaires 2010 and Centenaires 1998!! Our partner, IdealWine, invited many wine connoisseurs and it was great talking with them about the differences between these two vintages. The 2010, more powerful and with an almost immediate expression, easily won-over...

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Published : 2013-12-19

PGI wines : A range of wines complementary to the AOC wines

The PGI wines (Protected Geographical Indication) are often associated with low-end range wines having the characteristics of being smooth and easy to drink. This stems mainly from an Appellation Specifications Book which is more flexible than for the AOP (notably in regards to yield) and from Domaines owning AOP/AOC...

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Published : 2013-12-18

2013 Harvest – Report and perspectives

This vintage will undoubtedly be remembered for its exceptionally late harvest date. We did indeed end up harvesting about 3 weeks later than in 2012 (end of September for the reds), which corresponded more to the production years during the mid 1970’s … But late harvesting doesn’t mean lower quality...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2013-12-09

Wine Enthusiast - Les Cailloux among the 100 best wines of 2013

95 points - André Brunel Les Cailloux 2009 - 29th best wine of year 2013 The 2009 Les Cailloux is a classically built Châteauneuf that should age well through at least 2025. The blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 12% Syrah and 3% Cinsault Starts off with lovely notes of wild thyme and dark fruit, then adds herbal...

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Published : 2013-11-15

Devatting

Devatting is a little-known step in the vinification process which is nevertheless an essential one. It consists of clearing the vat of skins, stems, seeds... stuck at the bottom of the tank after having removed the juice issued from the fermentation and maceration phases . The skins are then put into the presses and...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2013-11-14

Best Wines Online

This short video in English by the “Best Wines Online” site presenter perfectly summarizes our goal with this wine: offer a “Côtes du Rhônes” experience without trying to do more

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2013-11-13

The French Wine Review (RVF) 2014: **

Although not very well known in France, André Brunel can nevertheless boast belonging to the elite few within the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. He makes high quality wines where minerality and refinement are considerable virtues. This whole wine range is incredibly consistent. The Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a calm...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2013-11-13

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - Les Cailloux Rouge 2012 - 91 93 points

Richer and deep, with additional layers and texture, the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape offers classic blackberry, earth, crushed stone, pepper and wild herb aromas and flavors. A full bodied, rich and textured barrel sample, with loads of promise, it should come together nicely once with a few years in the cellar and have...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2013-11-09

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - 2011 Vintage - 94 points

While there was no Cuvee Centenaire produced, Brunel’s 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape is certainly one of the stars of the vintage. A blend of 70% Grenache, 17% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and 3% Cinsault, with the Syrah aged in older barrel and everything else in tank, it offers a gorgeously youthful profile with notions of...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2013-11-09

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - Les Cailloux Blanc 2012 - 90 points

In addition to producing top reds, Brunel makes some fantastic whites and his 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is outstanding . A blend of 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc, it offers up lively, fresh notes of citrus blossom, green apple, and minerality with additional toasty, nutty notes developing with time in the...

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Published : 2013-11-07

BIB is gaining deserved recognition

BIB (for Bag In Box) is only moderately successful in France as it’s associated with an image of low-end wine, but it has a rapidly growing sector outside France. Impressed by its preservation qualities once open or for its practical aspect for carrying, it’s already monopolizing sales in countries like...

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-11-06

Scrambled Eggs with Truffles

Preparation time : 5 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Ingredients (for 4 people): 8 eggs 1 can of truffles 100 g of fine butter 4 soup spoons of thick double cream salt and freshly ground pepper Preparation : Cut the truffle into small bits. Melt the butter in a pan and put in the truffle bits to cook. Break the eggs...

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-11-05

Screwcap : advantages and drawbacks

The major defects, as described by screw-top critics, are mainly its lack of visual aesthetic (making a bottle of wine resemble a common bottle of hard liquor) and absence of the uncorking noise, synonymous of a certain upcoming pleasure. There are, however, many advantages : no more risk of having a corked wine taste...

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Published : 2013-11-01

Bresse Chicken Fricassee with Cream

Ingredients 6 Bresse chicken thighs 1 garlic clove 150g of Button mushrooms 1 soup spoon of butter 1 soup spoon of olive oil 10 cl poultry stock 50 cl double cream 1 egg yolk Preparation Debone the thighs and cut them into pieces Peel and crush the garlic Wash the mushrooms and cut them in two Put the mushrooms, the...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2013-10-10

Le Point special wine issue from September 5, September 2013

Cuvée Sabrine Millésime 2011: 14/14.5 Small red fruits, roundness, delightful, touch of menthol, chocolate, floral hint, liquorice, a long and fine fresh finish in the mouth.

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Published : 2013-09-19

My first harvest

Ah … harvest time, this poetic moment where the wine-maker carefully cuts each grape bunch, looking at it fondly before bringing it the cellar and changing it into elegant nectar… Now let me stop you right there: first off, harvest time means getting up at 5:30 in the morning to start cutting the grapes at...

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-09-18

First Tasting

Okay, here we are! This is one of the reasons that pushed me to leave Paris – a genuine tasting session. And not just any old tasting session as today we’re going to produce wines from the 2011 vintage year which will be bottled soon. Over forty samples are spread out successively on the table, each coming...

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Published : 2013-09-16

The exceptional weather conditions in 2013

We were faced with a particularly cold springtime this year. According to the French weather forecast, it was the coldest spring since 1987 and one of the rainiest since 1959. In our region, these abundant and frequent rainfalls made the phreatic water level rise significantly, which contributed to quick growth in the...

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Published : 2013-09-15

Un terroir et des Papes

Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s history is closely linked to the history of those who made this Vaucluse village an internationally recognized wine-growing area. French men and men of God have always been wine-lovers. When their headquarters were set-up in Avignon between 1300 and 1400, the Popes were relentless promoters...

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Published : 2013-09-14

Beef Samosas

Ingredients 300 g of ground beef 1 coffee spoon of ginger in small bits 2 coffee spoons of ground coriander 2 soup spoons of green peas 2 finely chopped garlic cloves 1 large minced onion 1 coffee spoon of curry powder Salt and pepper 1 coffee spoon of oil 50 g melted butter Sheet of dough Preparation Brown the onions...

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Published : 2013-09-11

From the appellation to the Cru

The appellation area went from 300 hectares in the 13th century to over 600 in 1800, before losing 400 during the great phylloxera epidemic at the end of the 19th century. The Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard owners were able to resist better than others to this phylloxera crises due to the diversity of their grape...

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-09-10

Different Grape Varieties

In addition to the favourable environmental conditions, Châteauneuf-du-Pape boasts a certain number of intelligent people with unsurpassed know-how. Over the centuries, the standard usage of thirteen different grape varieties have produced an aromatic balance confirmed by connoisseurs. There are eight red varieties:...

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-09-05

The bottling process

Where you understand what it’s like working on a production line Bottling isn’t a difficult exercise in itself. Its success depends on two major aspects: irreproachable hygiene and good initial management of the dry matter: (cardboard, cork, label, cap, etc …). For the hygiene aspect, steam...

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-08-30

Admirable wines

Upmost respect for the appellation and profound winemakers’ passion make Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines complex, powerful and balanced. The red are rich and develop a large range of fragrances: fresh fruits, blackcurrants, blackberries, spices, roasted coffee and leather. In the mouth these wines boast a beautiful...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2013-08-30

Hachette Wine Guide 2014: 1 star

Bécassonne Domaine de la Bécassonne: In a game-filled area, where woodcocks once used to nest, the Roussanne (50% of the blending for this cuvée), Grenache Blanch and the Clairette have seemingly found an exceptional growing environment. The fragrance is discreet but fine, predominantly floral, whereas the taste is...

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Published : 2013-08-30

Best Wines under 20 Euros – Revue du Vin de France

Châteauneuf-du-Pape (red) Les Cailloux 2011: 15/20 The oak barrel and part of the whole cluster provide a coarseness in the mouth which is smoothly managed as the sugar concentration in 2011 was dominant. Like spices on well-cooked meat, this gives it some crispness.

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-08-30

Wine and Food pairing

In general, red Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines unveil red fruit aromas of strawberry and raspberry, but also touches of leather, anise, liquorice and spices, typical silky tannins for Grenache. So it’s only natural that these powerful wines from this appellation with its fruity touches pair perfectly with products...

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Published : 2013-08-30

Les Cailloux Estate : Lucien, André et Fabrice Brunel

The Brunel family settled in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region during the 18th century. The Domaine’s name comes from the typical round pebbles found on this terroir, and have become part of the family tradition. The Domaine was created by Lucien Brunel, who inherited this wine-making land in 1954, but it’s...

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-08-30

The Estate : main figures

The Domaine boasts 20 hectares of vineyards, mostly with Grenache vines which have the average age of about 60 years old. Certain hundred-year-old vines, located on the Farguerol plain to the north of the appellation area are notably intended to make 3000 bottles of the prestigious Cuvée Centenaire of the Domaine Les...

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Published : 2013-08-26

Châteauneuf and Château...briand with Morel mushrooms

Ingredients 4 slices of Châteaubriand 1 leek, 1 carrot 1 bag of morel mushrooms 50g of butter 1 glass of dry white wine 2 spoons of double cream salt, pepper Preparing the recipe Put the dried morels in a bowl with warm water (for at least 1 hours). Finely chop the white part of the leek and cut up the carrot in thin...

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Published : 2013-08-25

Exceptional wines in exceptional restaurants

The Domaine Les Cailloux wines are visible in renowned French fine dining establishments, accompanying delicious delicacies concocted by illustrious French chefs. The Chef Alain Ducasse has chosen them for his two spectacular restaurants, the Jules Verne located on the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower and the Plazza...

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Published : 2013-08-16

Not just prestigious wines...

The Domaine Les Cailloux Crus are authentic wines, proudly reflecting their terroir. They boast the modesty of great wines and pair just as well with refined dishes as with traditional ones. Being a direct connoisseur, Alain Ducasse has placed them on his wine list at his Brasserie Aux Lyonnais, Rue Saint Marc in...

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Published : 2013-08-02

Fête de la Véraison de Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Grape Festival The veraison is a decisive step for grape ripening, the time when the seed grows and turns from green to red and when the fruit aromas awake. This change usually occurs at the beginning of August for the Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and is a process which last for about two weeks. It coincides with the annual...

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Published : 2013-06-12

A terroir of the Popes

Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s history is closely linked to the history of those who made this Vaucluse village an internationally recognized wine-growing area. French men and men of God have always been wine-lovers. When their headquarters were set-up in Avignon between 1300 and 1400, the Popes were relentless promoters...

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Published : 2013-06-01

Les Cailloux 2003 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 92/100

Fully mature, yet still showing solid mid-palate density and sweet fruit, the 2003 Les Cailloux Chateauneuf du Pape offers up a melange of sweet fig, kirsch, roasted herbs, and licorice aromas and flavors to go with a full-bodied, voluptuous, yet completely integrated and supple mouth feel. Fairly evolved, with some...

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Published : 2013-05-15

First drive to work

Despite all the little bothers and surprises I’ve written about in the above posts, there was one moment which has stood out in my mind – one of sheer happiness: my first drive to work. No more underground, no more being pushed around at the Saint Lazare exit, no sounds of buses, scooters, jackhammers,...

Blog Vin

Published : 2013-04-04

The stake

Planting the stakes consists of … planting the stakes. This is a necessary job to mark-off the rows (for example to show the tractor driver where to plough) and help the vine grow in the right direction by providing a sort of “guide”. In our region, we always plant stakes facing north to protect...

Press & Guides Vin

Published : 2012-09-30

Centenaire 2010 - Jeb Dunnuck : 98-100/100

Even better and a monumental wine in the making, then profound 2010 Les Cailloux Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Cuvée Centenaire (tasted just prior to bottling) smells of a Provencal street market and offers up gorgeous aromas kirsch, raspberry, dried flowers, spice-box, roasted meats, and licorice on the nose. Coming from a...

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Published : 2012-09-30

Les Cailloux 2011 - Jeb Dunnuck : 90-93/100

I was able to taste through 4 different samples of André’s 2011 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with each showing plenty of texture, depth and richness. The odds are that there will not be a Centenaire, so this cuvee should benefit from the inclusion of the old vine Grenache from the Farguerol lieu-dit, which was easily my...

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Published : 2012-06-23

Les Cailloux 2008 - Jeb Dunnuck : 90/100

Showing well and certainly a success in the vintage, the 2008 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a classic wine that delivers loads of blackberry and cherry styled fruit that’s intermixed with notions of cured meats, ground pepper, licorice, wild flowers, and garrigue on the nose. This...

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Published : 2012-03-18

Centenaire 2007 - Jeb Dunnuck : 97/100

Hedonistic to the extreme and pushing the ripeness scale, yet keeping everything in check, the 2007 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-duPape Cuvée Centenaire (almost 100% Grenache, with a splash of Mourvèdre, that’s from the Farguerol lieu-dit in the northwest part of the appellation) is a...

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Published : 2012-03-18

Les Cailloux 2007 - Jeb Dunnuck : 93/100

Aged beautifully and starting to show more typicity and complexity, the 2007 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-du-Pape boasts textbook aromatics of blacker styled Grenache fruit, garrigue, underbrush, licorice, and rolled stone. Full-bodied and rich, with a supple, light texture, beautiful balance, and...

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Published : 2011-03-28

Centenaire 1998 - Jeb Dunnuck : 98+ / 100

Still a pup in terms of development, the otherworldly 1998 Les Cailloux Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire is still borderline primary and unevolved on the nose, yielding staggering levels of licorice-laced blackberry fruit that’s supported by new leather, flowers, spice, and garrigue notes that just come...

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Published : 2011-03-28

Centenaire 2001 - Jeb Dunnuck : 97/ 100

Made from 80% very old vine Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, and 10% Syrah, with the Grenache aged for 15-20 months in old foudre and small barrels, and the Syrah and Mourvèdre aged in demi-muids, the 2001 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-duPape Cuvée Centenaire sports a profound, complex bouquet of kirsch,...

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Published : 2011-03-28

Centenaire 2005 - Jeb Dunnuck : 97+/100

A stunning, profound wine, the 2005 Les Cailloux Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire, a blend of 80% Grenache and the rest a mix of Mourvèdre and Syrah, delivers spectacular aromatics of kirsch, garrigue, roasted meats, and licorice that soar from the glass. Absurdly perfumed, complex and a touch exotic on the nose,...

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Published : 2011-03-28

Les Cailloux 1998 - Jeb Dunnuck : 89/100

Dense and meaty, the 1998 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-du-Pape shows a compact profile on the nose with thick black fruits, licorice, and earth. With additional air, more garrigue, wild herb, and fennel notes emerge. Medium to full bodied on the palate, with a rich, full feel through the middle,...

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Published : 2009-11-01

Centenaire 2000 - Jeb Dunnuck : 96/100

A blend of 80% Grenache (from the Farguerol vineyard), 8% Syrah and 12% Mourvedre, the 2000 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire offers up perfumed notes of spice, leather and meat that are mixed with subtle garrigue, underbrush and kirsch fruit. In the mouth, the wine is full...

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Published : 2009-08-31

Centenaire 1989 - Jeb Dunnuck : 95/100

Showing stunning and captivating aromatics, the 1989 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire is packed with garrigue, smoked herbs, dried blood and tobacco aromatics that are wrapped around a deep, fruit driven core. The wine opens up beautifully over the evening, showing superb...

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Published : 2009-08-01

Les Cailloux 2006 - Jeb Dunnuck : 91/100

An outstanding wine, the 2006 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-du-Pape has a complex, nuanced bouquet of licorice, spice, leather and garrigue to go with its stony, mineral laced fruit. The palate is medium bodied and shows a firm texture, nice balance and clean, edgy finish.

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Published : 2009-03-22

Centenaire 1990 - Jeb Dunnuck : 98/100

The staggering 1990 Les Cailloux (Lucien et André Brunel) Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Centenaire is filled with massive garrigue, spice box and stone notes blended with sweet red fruit aromatics. Despite seeing close to 18 months in new oak, this doesn’t show a hint of wood and is intense, perfumed and complex....

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Published : 2009-03-09

Les Cailloux 2004 - Jeb Dunnuck : 91/100

Seeminlgy much more ripe than a previous bottle, the 2004 Les Cailloux Châteauneuf-du-Pape shows a ripe, rich nose that borders on the overripe with roasted herbs, licorice, black cherry and earthy notes. With air, this gains a stony and almost chocolately edge and the palate is full bodied, rich, textured and...

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Published : 2008-01-01

Les Cailloux 2006- La Revue du Vin de France : 18.5/20

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Published : 2005-01-01

Les Cailloux 2003 - La Revue du Vin de France : 16.5/20

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Published : 2004-02-01

Les Cailloux 2001 - Wine advocate - Robert Parker

The 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape, an unfined/unfiltered blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, and 15% Syrah, is more structured than the open-knit 2000 or muscular 1998. The 2001 is a dense, archetypical effort offering a classic bouquet of Provencal herbs intermixed with loamy soil, Asian spice, kirsch liqueur, cedar,...

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Published : 2003-02-01

Les Cailloux 2000 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 91/100

The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape is pure sex in a bottle. A fragrant bouquet offers up aromas of spice box, cedar, pepper, jammy cherries, and a hint of plums and prunes. Dense, full-bodied, and evolved, but gorgeously succulent, this is a seamless, voluptuous Chateauneuf du Pape. Its fragrance, tactile mouthfeel, and...

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Published : 2003-01-01

Les Cailloux 1990 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 95/100

Les Cailloux’s regular cuvee has evolved into a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, and 5% miscellaneous varietals aged both in barrel and foudre. The traditional cuvee of 1990 is stunning. Fully mature, it offers up a delicious perfume of Asian spices, cedar, leather, black cherries, plums, and...

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Published : 2001-12-01

Les Cailloux 1999 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

The famed Cuvee Centenaire (produced from 100+ year old vines) was included in the cuvee classique in 1999. Made in an evolved style for proprietor Andre Brunel, the 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits a dark plum/ruby color as well as a sweet, spicy nose of red and black fruits mixed with garrigue, pepper, spice box,...

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Published : 1997-10-01

Les Cailloux 1996 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 88-90/100

Not one of winemaker Andre Brunel's favorite vintages (although I'm a fan), the 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape reveals a surprisingly youthful, lively ruby color to the rim to go with classic notes of dried Provencal herbs, cured meats, kirsch, leather and exotic spices. These carry to a full-bodied, ripe, concentrated...

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Published : 1997-01-01

Les Cailloux 1993 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

The 1993 may never reach the level of the sumptuous 1990, but it is equal to Brunel's 1988. The wine reveals an impressive dark ruby/purple color, a fragrant, textbook nose of garrigue, and sweet, black-cherry fruit. Ripe and full-bodied, with an inner core of sweetness and richness, this admirable Chateauneuf du Pape...

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Published : 1997-01-01

Les Cailloux 1992 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 92/100

The 1992 (remember, the cuvee I am describing is the one sold to the American importer) represents 850 cases of Brunel's oldest vines aged in 15-20% new oak. The wine is one of the superstars of what is an average to slightly above average vintage. It reveals an impressively saturated dark ruby/purple color, a...

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Published : 1997-01-01

Les Cailloux 1988 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 89/100

The 1988 offers a complex bouquet of peppers, spices, black fruits, and herbs, followed by a rich, medium- to full-bodied, velvetytextured wine that is complex yet more forward and less concentrated than the 1989.

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Published : 1997-01-01

Les Cailloux 1983 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 87/100

This wine has developed well. Undoubtedly a success for the vintage, the wine has a good, deep color, a spicy, black-cherryscented bouquet, some subtle herbaceousness, full body, and considerable length. Anticipated maturity: now-2000.

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Published : 1997-01-01

Les Cailloux 1978 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

Finally, this vintage has reached full maturity. Deep garnet-colored, with smoky, cedary, tobacco, and jammy cherry-scented aromas, this is a classic, full-bodied, deep, succulent wine. Mouth-filling and complex, it will drink well for another 10 years.

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Published : 1996-08-01

Les Cailloux 1994 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 90/100

Brunel has produced one of the finest 1994 Chateauneuf du Papes, a full-bodied, impressively textured and concentrated wine that is not far off the mark of his great 1989 and 1990. The 1994 exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, a wonderful Provencal nose of seaweed, black olives, and copious quantities of black and red...

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Published : 1996-02-01

Les Cailloux 1985 - Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski : 86/100

Andre Brunel has pushed this estate into the top echelon of Chateauneuf du Pape domaines. Like so many 1985 Chateauneuf du Papes (Beaucastel and Henri Bonneau are noteworthy exceptions), Les Cailloux's offering has turned out to be a good, but uninspiring wine. The baby fat possessed by so many 1985 Chateauneufs when...