Beaucastel Roussanne Vielle Vignes 2007

This is the great white wine from Châteauneuf-du-Pape that gifted part of the Rhone between Orange and Avignon. The Chateau de Beaucastel white "Vieilles Vignes" (old vines) comes from a small parcel only 7 acres in size where the old vines are at least 75 years old. With its roots stretching into miocene marine molasses overlaid with alpine diluvium (formed by round pebbles – or "galets") this 100% Roussanne is hand-picked and gently handled throughout harvest. Fermentation takes place 50% in barrels and 50% in stainless steel vats, followed by malo-lactic fermentation, and maturation for eight months, with 50% in oak barrels and 50% in vats, prior to bottling. Celebrated year after year, this is marked by its telltale aromas of acacia flowers and honey with a very rich, honeyed palate that is as fine as Roussanne comes.

Expert Review

97 Wine Advocate #185 Oct 2009
The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Vieilles Vignes (100% Roussanne) could be called the “Montrachet of southern France.” A wine of great intensity, it boasts thrilling aromas of orange marmalade, nectarine liqueur, honeysuckle, peaches, and apricots. Stunningly rich with full body, terrific acidity, and a finish that lasts 45+ seconds, this is an amazing achievement. It should drink well for 7-8 years, shut down or become oxidized, then, hopefully, re-emerge at around age 12-15, and drink in a completely different fashion for several decades thereafter

“This is gorgeous, with a creamy mouthfeel that
carries lush papaya, green and yellow apple,
chamomile, melon and heather honey notes
through the long, salted butter-tinged finish.
There’s great underlying minerality. Superlong.
Drink now through 2020.”
“HOT WINES”

The Wine Spectator- 95 points

Food Pairings

Mediterranean red mullet cooked in a salty crust and Tempura courgette flowers