Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2012
Vidal-Fleury
Founded in 1781, Vidal-Fleury not only is the Rhône’s oldest continuing grower/négociant firm, but it also secured an international following very quickly.Thomas Jefferson’s visit in 1787 was its first contact with the United States; he called the wines “ justly celebrated”.
The elaboration of Vidal-Fleury’s wines consists of four separate operations – the vineyard, winemaking, ageing and bottling. The superb origins of the grapes and the patience taken in maturing are what make the quality of Vidal-Fleury wines according to Winemaker Guy Sarton du Jonchay.
Terroir: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre grapes are grown on steeply terraced vineyards in shallow soils made up primarily of clay, stones and sand. Vineyard elevations between 80-100 meters.
Vinification: Grapes are hand and machine harvested and transported to the winery in small crates. Fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts in temperature controlled tanks with the maceration period lasting approximately 14-20 days. The wine is aged on its lees 100% in large oak barrels for a period of 12 months. The finished wine is very lightly filtered (cross flow) and not fined. The wines rest in bottle for a minimum of 3 months prior to release.
Additional Information
Deep, ruby red in color with a nose of mixed fresh cherry, strawberry and prune. Fresh on the palate with firm tannins, layers of peppery spice and berry.
Technical Details
- Appellation: Chateauneuf-du-Pape
- Winemaker: Guy Sarton du Jonchay
- Sustainability: Sustainable Practices
- Soil: Clay, pebbles, sand
- Yield: 43 hl/ha
- Alcohol: 14.5%
- Avg Production: 20,000 cases
- Sizes Available: 750ml
- Pack Size: 12/750ml
- Varietals: 85% Grenache, 10% Syrah 5% Mourvedre
Recent Press
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Score: 91 Points
Wine Enthusiast Author: Anna Lee
Date: Friday, April 6, 2018While roasted plum and fig flavors are plump and fleshy here, savory hints of earth and bramble lend complexity to this silken soft wine. Sunny raspberry acidity and ripe, fleshy tannins accent its warm appeal along with delicate clove and vanilla notes that linger through the finish. -
Score: 91 Points
Wine Spectator Author: James Molesworth
Date: Tuesday, May 30, 2017Delivering steeped red currant and raspberry fruit liberally laced with singed chestnut, smoldering savory and roasted cedar accents, this alluring red has solid old-school grip, but with a fresh sanguine streak to enliven the finish. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvdre. Drink now through 2022. -
The Wine Advocate Author: Jeb Dunnuck
Date: Monday, November 14, 2016Still in tank at the time of this tasting, the 2012 Chteauneuf du Pape is solid, and should be outstanding. Ripe blueberry, blackberry, violets and wild-herb-like qualities come together nicely in this medium to full-bodied, layered and ripe effort. Possessing sweet tannin, low acidity and a delicious, easy-drinking feel, it should drink nicely on release and evolve gracefully going forward.Grade: 89-91 Points
