The limited production, 350-case cuvee of 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Secrets de Pignan Vieilles Vignes reveals a darker ruby/purple hue in addition to notes of plums, pine forest needles, soy, and intense black cherry and black currant fruit. Opulent and full-bodied with silky tannins, stunning depth and texture, and a finish that lasts over 45 seconds, it is a blend of 95% Grenache and 5% Mourvedre from 90+-year-old vines. It is aged totally in stainless steel tanks. This cuvee comes from the famous lieu-dit of Pignan, the same area where the renowned Chateau Rayas is located.
This relatively small (25+ acres) estate flies somewhat under the radar, but its offerings from the sandy soils of Pignan are well-worth checking out. They also produce some stunning wines under the Cotes du Rhone-Villages appellation.
Importers: Simon N Cellars, Charlottesville, VA; tel. (434) 977-4476 and Christopher Cannan, Europvin; www.europvin.com.