Monday, September 28, 2009

2007 Domaine Saint Prefert Chateauneuf du Pape


http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/09465.html

Brand: Domaine Saint Prefert
Style: Red Wine
Varietal: Rhone Blend
Region: Rhone
Category: France
Size: 750 ml
Ratings: RP 90-92IWC 89-92

Saint Prefert, the Product of Passion and Know How

In the 1920's, Mr. Fernand Serre, a pharmacist in Avignon, discovered that a small piece of vineyard in Chateauneuf-du Pape bore his name: the Serres area. As a respectful winelover, he purchased about 80 hectares of vines, at the southern tip of the village of Chateauneuf.

Mr. Serre had been secretly dreaming for years of becoming a vintner. He quickly built the winery and learned winemaking techniques. Mr. Serre was one of the first winters in Chateauneuf to bottle his own wine. Today, Isabel Ferrando perpetuates this know-how and passion for wine growing.

All the grape varieties used are vinified separately. Grenache and Cinsault bring warmth, colour and body. Mauvedre and Syrah offer structure and ageing potential. Counoise and Picpoul enhance vinosity and freshness. All of Saint Prefert's wines are estate bottled.

As Robert Parker says "Ever since winemaker Isabel Ferrando released her fabulous 2003s, this superb estate has become one of my favorite estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. Located in the Serres quarter of the appellation, where the football-sized rocks are especially noticeable, all one has to do is taste the 2003 Charles Giraud from Saint-Prefert to realize what exceptional heights can be reached. There are three cuvees, all of them particularly brilliant in 2007. If you haven't discovered Saint-Prefert and the brilliant winemaker Isabel Ferrando, it's about time!"

Reviews

Robert Parker 90-92 Points

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 80% Grenache and the rest equal parts Mourvedre, Syrah, and Cinsault. Half of it is aged in 600-litre demi-muids and the rest in cement tanks. The wine is delicious, showing the brilliant typicity of the appellation in its notes of lavender, melted licorice, kirsch liqueur, tapenade, and spice box. It is soft, round, full-bodied, very sexy, exceptionally pure, layered, and just a brilliant Chateauneuf du Pape. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.

International Wine Cellar 89-92 Points

Vivid red. Expressive, perfumed nose shows raspberry, garrigue, floral and smoky mineral qualities. Lush red fruit flavors are energized by tangy minerality and framed by silky tannins. Finishes pure and juicy, with a repeating floral note. You'll be able to drink this sexy wine as soon as it is released. Based on 80% grenache.

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/09465.html

Gary's Wine & Marketplace - Madison | Bernardsville | Wayne
1308 Route 23 North • Wayne, NJ 07470 • 973-633-3900
E-mail: info@garyswine.com • Toll Free: 1-888-99-GARYS
http://www.GarysWine.com • Buy Wine Online • NJ Wine Store

2007 Le Vieux Donjon Chateauneuf du Pape

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/10359.html

Brand: Le Vieux Donjon
Style: Red Wine
Varietal: Rhone Blend
Region: Southern Rhone
Category: France
Size: 750 ml
Ratings: RP 94-96 WS 94IWC 93-96


Le Vieux Donjon- Tradition and Quality at the Highest Level

Le Vieux Donjon is run by Lucien Michel, his wife, Marie-José, and daughter Claire. Keeping to tradition, they produce only one cuvée of Chateauneuf du Pape, making them one of the few estates that has resisted the current fashion for producing old vine cuvee. So, unlike many of their competitiors, all their best, old vine fruit goes into this wine.

The vinification process is in the best sense of the word traditional. The blend comprises 75 percent Grenache (from vines averaging 90 years of age), 10-15 percent Syrah and 5-10 percent Mourvèdre and Cinsault. The wine is matured in large oak foudres at least two years old.

An estate for connoisseurs, these beautiful traditionally made Chateauneuf du Papes begin to truly blossom when they have been in the bottle for 5-7 years.

Reviews

Robert Parker 94-96 Points

The three component parts of the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape, Syrah from the estate's holdings in Pialons, old vine Grenache from sandy terroirs, and Mourvedre, are all brilliant, hence the estimated rating of (94-96). The wine reveals a dense purple color along with a gorgeous bouquet of camphor, licorice, graphite, sweet red and black fruits, smoked meats, and a hint of charcoal. Full-bodied and pure with plenty of Provencal garrigue and meaty characters, this superb, chewy red should turn out to be their finest effort since the 1998 and 1990. It is a classic, traditionally made Chateauneuf du Pape to drink between 2013-2026.

Wine Spectator 94 Points

Crackles with an urgency atypical for the vintage, with juniper, cassis bush and tobacco notes that manage to be more prominent than the well of dark plum and currant fruit this has in reserve. Racy and invigorating, with the fruit's sappy intensity offset perfectly by the mouthwatering minerality. Best from 2010 through 2028. 5,000 cases made. -JM

International Wine Cellar 93-96 Points

Inky ruby. Strikingly elegant, hypnotic bouquet of black raspberry, redcurrant, potpourri, garrigue and minerals. Stains the palate with deep red and dark berry flavors and suggestions of smoky minerals, candied flowers and Asian spices. Impeccably balanced wine with a seductive finishing interplay of sweetness, power and precision. This will be a must buy for Rhone freaks.

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/10359.html


Gary's Wine & Marketplace - Madison | Bernardsville | Wayne
1308 Route 23 North • Wayne, NJ 07470 • 973-633-3900
E-mail: info@garyswine.com • Toll Free: 1-888-99-GARYS
http://www.GarysWine.com • Buy Wine Online • NJ Wine Store

2007 Paul Autard Chateauneuf du Pape la Cote Ronde


http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/09926.html

Brand: Domaine Paul Autard
Style: Red Wine
Varietal: Rhone Blend
Region: Rhone
Category: France
Size: 750 ml
Ratings: RP 92-94WS 95


The Evolution of the Autard Estate

The story of the Autard family is the story of all great appellations, in that it is the story of the evolution of expertise -- the sum of first-hand experiences, observations, experiments, inventions, and discoveries, in this case specific to Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and the Autard property in particular -- as it is passed down from generation to generation.

The Autard family effort began in Courthézon, with an old farm-turned-vineyard; then in 2005 the enterprise took a giant step forward, with the construction of a new cave that permits vast improvements at every stage in the winemaking cycle.

In any undertaking that spans the generations, it is connoisseurship -- in the case of winemaking, a multiple matter of climate, land, vines, tools, and techniques -- that is the cornerstone... Jean-Paul, as the heir of this expertise, brings to it his own ideas and intuitions, in order to enhance as well as perpetuate the Autard domaine's well-deserved prestige.

Reviews

Robert Parker 92-94 Points

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape La Cote Ronde appears to handle the oak component better than some of its older siblings. Inky/ruby/purple to the rim with a beautiful perfume of cassis, kirsch, charcoal, and graphite, this wine is powerful, rich, and full-bodied with a subtle hint of toasty oak in the aromatics, and no hard edges. The vintage's hallmark purity, and gorgeous texture as well as length are present in this excellent 2007. It should hit its stride in 3-4 years, and last for 20-25.

Wine Spectator 95 Points

A stunner, combining the rich currant, fig and boysenberry fruit of the vintage with the region's characteristic charred apple wood, graphite, aged tobacco and black tea notes. The long, invigorating finish is supported by riveting acidity and well-embedded grip. When power and finesse work together, it's a beautiful thing. Drink now through 2025. 400 cases imported. -JM

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/09926.html


Gary's Wine & Marketplace - Madison | Bernardsville | Wayne
1308 Route 23 North • Wayne, NJ 07470 • 973-633-3900
E-mail: info@garyswine.com • Toll Free: 1-888-99-GARYS
http://www.GarysWine.com • Buy Wine Online • NJ Wine Store

2007 Paul Autard Chateauneuf du Pape


http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/67889.html


Brand: Domaine Paul Autard
Style: Red Wine
Varietal: Rhone Blend
Region: Rhone
Category: France
Size: 750 ml
Ratings: WS 93RP 90-93IWC 90-93


The Evolution of the Autard Estate

The story of the Autard family is the story of all great appellations, in that it is the story of the evolution of expertise -- the sum of first-hand experiences, observations, experiments, inventions, and discoveries, in this case specific to Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and the Autard property in particular -- as it is passed down from generation to generation.

The Autard family effort began in Courthézon, with an old farm-turned-vineyard; then in 2005 the enterprise took a giant step forward, with the construction of a new cave that permits vast improvements at every stage in the winemaking cycle.

In any undertaking that spans the generations,it is connoisseurship -- in the case of winemaking, a multiple matter of climate, land, vines, tools, and techniques -- that is the cornerstone... Jean-Paul, as the heir of this expertise, brings to it his own ideas and intuitions, in order to enhance as well as perpetuate the Autard domaine's well-deserved prestige.

Reviews

Wine Spectator 93 Points

This delivers a very large core of crushed currant, plum and blackberry fruit, all held in check by hints of maduro tobacco, bittersweet ganache, black tea and graphite. The long finish has ample grip, lending further length and definition to the impressive range of fruit. Best from 2010 through 2025. 750 cases imported. -JM

Robert Parker 90-93 Points

The opaque ruby/purple-colored 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape offers up beautiful, sweet black raspberry and kirsch fruit, tremendous opulence, and a sexy, gamy character. Layered, sumptuous, and long in the mouth with excellent purity and freshness, it should drink effortlessly for 10-15 years.

International Wine Cellar 90-93 Points

Inky ruby. Exotically perfumed nose displays cherry, dark berries, musky herbs and incense, plus a suave mineral undertone. Firm and vibrant, with no excess fat and vivid red and dark fruit flavors. Gains weight, flesh and deeper dark berry flavors on the finish, which leaves behind bitter cherry and licorice notes. Pretty serious, and built to age.

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/67889.html



Gary's Wine & Marketplace - Madison | Bernardsville | Wayne
1308 Route 23 North • Wayne, NJ 07470 • 973-633-3900
E-mail: info@garyswine.com • Toll Free: 1-888-99-GARYS
http://www.GarysWine.com • Buy Wine Online • NJ Wine Store

2007 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape Mon Aieul

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/10394.html

Brand: Pierre Usseglio & Fils
Style: Red Wine
Varietal: Rhone Blend
Region: Southern Rhone
Category: France
Size: 750 ml
Ratings: RP 96-99 IWC 93-96


Domaine Pierre Usseglio- An Italian Outpost in Chateauneuf du Pape

In 1931 Francis Usseglio left Italy and went to Chateauneuf du Pape and got a job working in the vineyards. In 1948 he purchased his own property. Francis' son Pierre inherited his father's property and now the third generation, Pierre's sons Jean-Pierre and Thierry, are in charge of Domaine Pierre Usseglio.

Domaine Pierre Usseglio consists of 55 acres divided into 15 different parcels in Chateauneuf du Pape. Half of the vines are about 60 years old and the rest are about 30 years old. The Red Chateauneuf du Pape is usually made from 75 % Grenache and the rest Syrah, Cinsault and Mourvèdre. It is aged in oak casks for 12-18 months depending of the vintage. The result is terrifically concentrated yet balanced wines that reveal layers of aromatic and flavor complexity.

Reviews

Robert Parker 96-99 Points

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Mon Aieul (100% Grenache) represents a naked expression of the three vineyards planted on sand, clay, and limestone. There are 1,700 cases of this 2007, which offers a surreal tasting experience. Soaring aromas of blueberries, black raspberries, licorice, roasted herbs, and grilled meats are followed by a wine of superb intensity, purity, multi-dimensions, and an endless finish. It should be drinkable when released, and age effortlessly for 15-20 years. It reminded me of the utterly profound 2003, with more freshness and depth.

International Wine Cellar 93-96 Points

Inky ruby. Powerful dark berry and cherry preserve aromas are complicated by cola, underbrush and Indian spices. Lush and creamy, with concentrated black raspberry and cherry-cola flavors and a jolt of white pepper on the back. Finishes with mounting sweetness and excellent persistence. This refuses to let go of the palate.

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/10394.html

Gary's Wine & Marketplace - Madison | Bernardsville | Wayne
1308 Route 23 North • Wayne, NJ 07470 • 973-633-3900
E-mail: info@garyswine.com • Toll Free: 1-888-99-GARYS
http://www.GarysWine.com • Buy Wine Online • NJ Wine Store

2007 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/10396.html

Brand: Pierre Usseglio & Fils
Style: Red Wine
Varietal: Rhone Blend
Region: Southern Rhone
Category: France
Size: 750 ml
Ratings: RP 90-93IWC 89-92


Domaine Pierre Usseglio- An Italian Outpost in Chateauneuf du Pape

In 1931 Francis Usseglio left Italy and went to Chateauneuf du Pape and got a job working in the vineyards. In 1948 he purchased his own property. Francis' son Pierre inherited his father's property and now the third generation, Pierre's sons Jean-Pierre and Thierry, are in charge of Domaine Pierre Usseglio.

Domaine Pierre Usseglio consists of 55 acres divided into 15 different parcels in Chateauneuf du Pape. Half of the vines are about 60 years old and the rest are about 30 years old. The Red Chateauneuf du Pape is usually made from 75 % Grenache and the rest Syrah, Cinsault and Mourvèdre. It is aged in oak casks for 12-18 months depending of the vintage. The result is terrifically concentrated yet balanced wines that reveal layers of aromatic and flavor complexity.

Reviews

Robert Parker 90-93 Points

Made from the same blend as the 2006, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape possesses a dense ruby/purple hue as well as wonderfully sweet aromas of blue and black fruits, underbrush, truffles, incense, and garrigue. It is full-bodied, opulent, fleshy, powerful and substantial in the mouth. The Usseglios told me they had a couple of lots that went into this wine that hit nearly 17% natural alcohol! This was not caused by spiking high temperatures (which the Southern Rhone did not experience in 2007), but rather by the extraordinarily low yields and severe drought conditions that existed from spring through the end of September.

International Wine Cellar 89-92 Points

Deep red. Exotic, expressive aromas of strawberry, white flowers and apricot; this shows the vibrancy and perfume of a white wine. Deeper raspberry and cherry on the palate, with the floral quality repeating. This exuberant wine will drink well young.

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/10396.html



Gary's Wine & Marketplace - Madison | Bernardsville | Wayne
1308 Route 23 North • Wayne, NJ 07470 • 973-633-3900
E-mail: info@garyswine.com • Toll Free: 1-888-99-GARYS
http://www.GarysWine.com • Buy Wine Online • NJ Wine Store

2007 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee


http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/10629.html

Brand: Domaine du Pegau
Style: Red Wine
Varietal: Rhone Blend
Region: Cotes Du Rhone
Category: France
Size: 750 ml
Ratings: RP 94-96
PROMO: Free Shipping on a Case

Reviews

Robert Parker 94-96 points

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee, tasted from multiple foudres, stylistically, looks to be a hypothetical blend of the 2003 and 1990. The 2007 is full-bodied and powerful, with high tannins, high extract, and tremendous color, stuffing, and richness. It is like drinking a liquified, rare grilled steak mixed with ground pepper, roasted herbs, and spice. Juicy and pure, it explodes with the aromas of Provence. Dense, rich, more structured than the 2003, sumptuous, and deep (in the style of the 1990), it should evolve for 20-25 years.

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/10629.html

Gary's Wine & Marketplace - Madison | Bernardsville | Wayne
1308 Route 23 North • Wayne, NJ 07470 • 973-633-3900
E-mail: info@garyswine.com • Toll Free: 1-888-99-GARYS
http://www.GarysWine.com • Buy Wine Online • NJ Wine Store