Chateau Vaudieu

Chateau Vaudieu boasts an illustrious history. The impressive buildings at the domaine date back to 1767, and were commissioned by Admiral Gerin, of the Marseille admiralty. During the 19th century the domaine had a reputation for producing quality wines and was one of only four producers in the region that were exporting their wines. Today, the property is run by two brothers, Laurent and Julien Brechet, and after a period of chequered fortunes, with their investment and dedication, the domaine can once again be considered one of the finest in the appellation. With their desire to transform the quality of the domaine, they sought the skills of the famous oenologue, Phillipe Cambie. The classic 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape checks in as a destemmed blend of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah, that spent 18 months in barrel. Offering up impressive kirsch, black raspberry, dried spices and garrigue, this medium to full-bodied 2012, has an elegant, seamless texture, fantastic purity and sweet tannins that emerges on the finish. There's certainly a polished, slightly modern feel here, but it's perfectly balanced and loaded with character.