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Christian with our prize!
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When we visited our wine mentor, Christian Esparza at his InterCave wine emporium in Saint-Rémy de Provence this past October we asked if he had anything new and special for us to try. “How about a brilliant 2007 Châteauneuf du Pape that has been selected by two of our local Michelin starred restaurants?” he responded. “Nobody knows about this extraordinary Châteauneuf du Pape because they just started making it in 2006. In the past, they sent all their grapes to the co-op.” He opened it for us and what could I say but, “Wow!” We immediately contacted the winery and after much discussion were able to secure 240 bottles for our Members … at only $37 the bottle.
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Bernard and Aline Giuliani in a galet-strewn vineyard
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The wine under examination that day and the subject of extensive tasting (strictly on your behalves, mind) was the splendid 2007 Domaine Giuliani Châteauneuf du Pape. The Giuliani vineyards were established in 1930 and since then succeeding generations have laboured to produce the best grapes possible for the co-operative in Courthézon. But Bernard, the latest Giuliani to take the helm, had grown tired of seeing others reduce the fruits of his labour to mediocrity and in the early 2000’s decided that it was time to produce his own wines. His new cellars were completed in 2005 and the inaugural vintage of Domaine Giuliani Châteauneuf du Pape was the following year. Instead of one large property, the Giulianis own a number of choice plots totalling 8.3 hectares in a number of prime south-west Chateauneuf locations like La Crau and Pierredon. As one would expect, they meticulously maintain their vines and hand-pick only the finest grapes for their Châteauneuf (short form - Ch9!). The grapes are then destemmed and the juice undergoes traditional fermentation and spends at least ten months in oak barrels.
The Domaine Giuliani Wine on Offer
We are thoroughly delighted to introduce you to the amazing Domaine Giuliani 2007 Châteauneuf du Pape. The Giulianis make other wines but we haven’t had a chance to try them yet. This will be corrected when we visit the estate at the end of March – yet another immense sacrifice we will make on behalf of our Members. The wine comes in six-bottle cases and we will be taking your orders to the LCBO on Friday, February 18th. We were able to secure 240 bottles of this treasure and hope it proves enough for your requirements. If not, we will try to wheedle a few more bottles from the winery. And, don’t forget – 2007 was a superb vintage (Robert Parker says it is the best he has ever tasted in Châteauneuf du Pape).
2007 Domaine Giuliani Chateauneuf du Pape (14.5% Alc./Vol.) $37/$222 six bottle case
Let me start by confessing that I am a Grenache addict; I just love the stuff. And the 2007 Domaine Giuliani is made from lots of it - 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre - from vines averaging over fifty years of age situated on their best property. The Giulianis know how to grow great Grenache which is no doubt part of the reason why I adore this wine. It is a deep ruby red and aromas of ripe raspberries, cherries, cassis, smoke, garrigue and spice positively leap from the glass. In the mouth it is certainly not a timid wine. The red and black fruit persist joined by raisins, liquorice and just a hint of pepper. It is full, round, supple and long - everything a fine, young Châteauneuf du Pape should be. Here is what Robert Parker has to say about the 2007 Domaine Giuliani Châteauneuf du Pape:
“The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape, a sleeper of the vintage, proves that a high tide raises all boats. Exhibiting soft, sweet tannins, a velvety, medium to full-bodied texture, and loads of red and black fruits intertwined with Provençal herbs, pepper and spices, this luscious, complex, delicious 2007 should drink well for 7 - 8 years. Rating – 90.”
Andreas Larsson of ‘Tasted’ magazine adds:
“Well-built with generous aromas of sweet berries, kirsch, and some herbal notes, rather full and intense palate, still young and unresolved with a need of cellaring for another 2 years, should soften and develop well.”
Two local restaurants located near Les Baux de Provence, l’Oustau de Baumanière and Cabro d’Or (both four star Relais et Château and Michelin starred) feature it on their cartes.
What more can I add? I think it is drinking quite nicely right now, but ideally it should be decanted a few hours before serving (at around 16°C). It will go brilliantly with roast lamb, confit de canard, game, stews and wild mushrooms. But, I too feel it will only get better with some time in the cellar which is one of the nice things about ordering by the case – try it now and try it later! Order your very well-priced six-pack of Ch9 ecstasy now.
The above price includes a $1.00 per bottle administration fee.
Please pass this note on to anyone you think would enjoy an absolutely terrific Châteauneuf du Pape (is there anyone who wouldn’t?).
Coming Next!
Seems like supplies of Graham Nutter’s last shipment of delicious potables from the venerable Château Saint Jacques d’Albas are running low. Several members have asked when we will next be offering his La Chapelle, Le Château, Le Domaine, Clos de Garric and Petit St Jacques (including the Rosé) wines. The answer is – within the month.
2011 Château de Goult Tour de Provence is Sold Out!
Hélène is excited to announce that the court has been established for her 2011 occupation of the magnificent Château de Goult in the Luberon. Plans are already underway for her next siege, slated for September, 2012. Please contact Hélène if you would like be in the vanguard for her next conquest of fair Provence.
Cheers!
Jim & Hélène
www.arthursellers.com
jaswalker@arthursellers.com
hbuisson@ofrance.ca
