Chante Cigale Chateauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes 2012
Alexandre Favier is regarded as winemaker who is making some of the finest Chateauneuf du Pape wines available, and this Vieilles Vignes (Old Vines) shows why. A step up from the traditional cuvee, this Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is made from 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre, all destemmed. It was aged 60% in demi-muid barrels and 40% in tanks. One of the more voluptuous, textured and layered efforts, it offers fabulous minerality in its crushed rock, ground herbs, mulled blackberry and cherry-driven aromas and flavors.
Varietal: 70% grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre.
Palate: A hymn to the Grenache, crushed strawberry, dark fruit. Mouth velvety, concentrated and balanced by tannins of finesse exceptional.
Bottle Closure: Cork
Serving temperature: 16°C
Harvest: Handpicked
Alcohol: 15%
Reviews:
"A step up over the traditional cuvee, the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is made from 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre, all destemmed, that was aged 60% in demi-muid and 40% in tank. One of the more voluptuous, textured and layered efforts, it offers fabulous minerality in its crushed rock, ground herbs, mulled blackberry and kirsch-driven aromas and flavors. It has a rocking core of sweet fruit, integrated acidity and plenty of tannin, all of which say it’s going to have a long life. (JD)"
-93 points, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Oct 2014)-
"Opaque ruby. Mineral-accented cherry, red currant and licorice scents are complemented by a deeper suggestion of dark chocolate. Stains the palate with hefty red and dark berry flavors complicated by vanilla and bitter chocolate notes. Smoothly melds power and vivacity, finishing on a gently tannic note, with strong lingering spiciness. (JR)"
-92 points, Antonio Galloni (April 2015)-
"A fresh, silky, open-knit style, with friendly plum coulis, currant paste and red licorice notes that run through the medium-weight, spice-tinged finish."
-Wine Spectator (Sep 2014)-
