Domaine Saint Prefert dates back almost 100 years, to the early 1920’s, when Fernand Serre purchased an 80 hectare parcel of land. He founded Domaine Saint Prefert in 1930. The winery quickly earned a reputation for making high quality Chateauneuf du Pape and Domaine Saint Prefert became one of the first wines exported from the Southern Rhone to the United States. In 2002, Isabel Ferrando, a former banker who learned about winemaking in the Gigondas appellation at Domaine Raspail-Ay, purchased the vineyard and winery from the Serre family. Philippe Cambie is her consultant.
Ruby red in color. 15.5% ABV. 85% Grenache, 5% Mourvedre, 5% Syrah and 5% Cinsault. Heady nose of ripe red fruits, kirsch liqueur, garrigue and roasted herbs. Full bodied with ample acidity and a touch of heat. Concentrated and powerful. Raspberries, cassis, blood and pepper on the palate. Medium length on the finish. Some compelling pieces here but the heat is distracting. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 89 points.
Consider buying current vintages including the ’16 which should be available for around $50.