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 sweet kirsch, seaweed, licorice and hints of truffle all soaring from the glass. Fresh and vibrant, with a core of sweet fruit that’s balanced by building richness and ample structure, it is medium to full-bodied, layered and has a great finish. Drinking nicely now, it can be consumed anytime over the coming 5-7 years.
A fantastic estate that-s run by the talented and incredibly well spoken Andre Brunel, these character-filled efforts are made from his winery located in the southern part of the appellation. His 2011 base cuvee is one of the best in the vintage, and his 2012s show loads of potential.
Published : 2013-11-09