2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Choregies

A classic in the making is the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Choregies. A gorgeous nose of nori (the seaweed wrapper used in sushi restaurants) interwoven with ground pepper, incense, kirsch liqueur, floral notes, and loads of fruit soar from the glass of this dense ruby/purple-colored wine. Full-bodied, with superb concentration, wonderful precision and freshness, and a hefty yet refreshing finish of well over thirty seconds, this beauty has enough accessibility to be drunk now or cellared for 15 or more years. The is one of the oldest estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. It was sold at the turn of the century to the large negociant Ogier, and contrary to the idea that bigger is not better, Ogier has actually taken the wines back to their former glory of 30 to 40 years ago. The estate, encompassing 55 acres, produces two cuvees of red wine, their traditional blend of 80% Grenache and the rest the other authorized red varietals such as Syrah, Mourvedre, and Cinsault, and their limited production, exceptional wine, Les Choregies, which is a blend of 60% Grenache, 35% Syrah, and 5% Mourvedre, all coming from vines over 60 years of age. No known American importer.

Grenache Noir 60%, Syrah 35%, Mourvèdre 5%. Aged in a mixture of demi muids and 20% in barriques . Very dark. Gamey, farmyard aromas. Very rich and sweet and thick. Should be very rewarding. Tannins a bit dry, but all in all a very big, impressive (alcoholic) wine. (JR)