2007 Château Simian Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Grandes Grenachieres d'Hippolyte

An astonishing effort, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Grandes Grenachieres comes from a combination of Grenache vines planted in 1880, and younger vines planted in 1948. An incredible sleeper of the vintage to the extent anyone can find any of the 350 or so cases produced, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color in addition to an awesome aromatic display of spring flowers, sweet black raspberries and black cherries, and forest floor. The wine possesses amazing density and richness, yet flows across the palate like a delicate ballerina. This incredibly old vine material has an intensity, substance, and palate penetration that is nearly beyond belief, yet the wine never comes across as heavy. The purity, depth, and 60-second finish are to die for. As the last five words of my tasting note said, “Where can I find any?” This amazing Chateauneuf du Pape should drink well for two decades or more. (Not yet released) This small 10-acre estate has vines in four separate sectors of Chateauneuf du Pape. The cellars are located in the tiny village of Piolenc, which is not far from Orange, and is the “garlic” capitol of France. Importer: No known American importer.

No tasting note given.