Bottle Notes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape

1998 Vieux Télégraphe Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Bottle Notes

Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in the Rhone Valley, was founded in 1898 by Hippolyte Brunier. Located on the highest terrace of the appellation, the domaine was named for an 18th century telegraph relay tower located nearby. Today the 173-acre domaine is run by Daniel and Frederic Brunier, the great grandsons of the founder. Vieux Télégraphe is one of the appellation’s most admired estates. The vineyards are planted to 65% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 15% Mourvedre and 5% Cinsault and other grapes.

Light ruby red in color. 14% ABV. Stunning nose of red fruits, blood, herbs and wet pavement. Medium body with exquisite acidity. There is a tremendous core of dried, sweet fruit on the palate. Flavors of cherry, kirsch, iron, plums and Herbes de Provence. The finish is exceptionally long with ample tannins and gorgeous, plush fruit. The wine exemplifies traditional CdP at its very best. I have followed this vintage over the last decade and this bottle shows no sign of decline. For me, the best VT ever made. Drink over the next 2-4 years.

My rating: 97 points.

Recent vintages of this wine can generally be found for $75. Look for the 2016. Hard to go wrong here.

Tagged ,

Leave a Comment