An exclusive Chateauneuf-du-Pape that is a great discovery from the Rhone Valley. Tiny producer, great price and delicious bottle of wine make this a real winner.
The new Jerome Gradassi Chateauneuf du Pape was rated by the Revue du Vin de France (France’s most respected wine publication) as one of the 4 best Châteauneuf du Pape of the vintage – alongside Rayas, Capo de Pegau and Clos du Mont Olivet (at a price far less than those)!
We continue to hunt in the Rhône Valley for exciting emerging talent, and in Jérôme Gradassi we have struck the jackpot. Jérôme, 50 years old, was the boss and chef of a Michelin starred restaurant, L’Isle Sonnant in Avignon, until he sold it in 2003 to take up a mere 3½ hectares of vines left to him by his grandfather. In the cellar it’s all very traditional - into old stone tanks for the vinification, then a short ageing in old barrels. 75% Grenache. Scented, perfumed - very herbal and sweet on the nose - and with well-integrated fruits with a hint of cumin and white pepper. Much more accessible than most young Châteauneufs. This has the freshness of the vintage and is really a very accessible example. No rough edges. This has developed very nicely in bottle. Well done!
Winemaker Notes
The opaque ruby color is the first clue that this is Châteauneuf in the tradition of Bonneau and Rayas, not some over-the-top modern sledgehammer. Ripe black and blue fruits stand out on the nose, but they sit right alongside fresh violet, dried herbs, licorice, and woodsmoke. Subtle floral and spice nuances enliven broad, palate-coating cassis and bitter cherry flavors. Rich yet lively wine, with a strong closing punch, supple tannins, and lingering smokiness.
