2016 Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe Châteauneuf-du-Pape Telegramme

Bottled in April (which is always earlier than the other two Châteauneuf-du-Papes from this estate), the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Télégramme has real depth and richness as well as terrific notes of black raspberries, crushed rocks, salty, licorice, pepper, crushed flowers, and toasted spices. Medium to full-bodied, balanced, with plenty of tannins hiding under its fruit, it's an ideal wine for readers looking to see a hint of the style of this estate. It will keep for over a decade as well. Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe is one of the old-guard estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and the Brunier brothers continue to make a classic, ageworthy, and uncompromising style of wine that requires bottle age. The estate is in the eastern portion of the appellation and has a whopping 150 acres of prime terroir, almost all located in the famed La Crau lieu-dit, which is one of the warmer, earlier terroirs in the region. In addition to their reds, they also make a brilliant white. I’ve also included the La Roquete releases here, which are also made by this team.

Boasting silky tannins, strawberry-raspberry fruit and delicate herbal shadings, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Telegramme isn't hugely rich or concentrated, but it is harmonious and graceful. Bottled in March 2018, it's immediately approachable yet capable of providing pleasure over the next 5-7 years.

Vivid ruby. Spice-accented red berries and cherry on the nose, along with suggestions of garrigue and smoky minerals. Juicy red fruit and floral flavors show very good focus and become deeper and sweeter with air. The floral note returns on the clinging, energetic finish, which is shaped by smooth tannins.