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Henri Bonneau (1938-2016) was considered by many aficionados to be the 'King of Châteauneuf-du-Pape'. His rare wines possess a magical, ethereal, silky quality, with astonishing finesse and nuanced subtlety, which sets them apart from the more typical, robust style of the appellation. This unique character arose from vines situated in 'Le Crau' - perhaps the finest sector - and always ageing the wines for 5-10 years in old Burgundy barrels before deciding whether to bottle as Châteauneuf-du-Pape or the more celebrated Cuvée Marie Beurrier or Réserve des Celestins. If a vintage didn't pass muster, it might never actually be bottled as Châteauneuf, but instead find its way into the vin de table, 'Les Rouliers.' Since Henri's death, his son, Marcel, has taken the reins as the 13th generation proprietor of this legendary estate.
Apparently, there's no Les Celestins in 2013, which was a challenging vintage in the Southern Rhône. That said, the barrel we tasted of the 2013 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Marie Beurrier was a bit light but elegant and silky in texture, with pomegranate-like red fruit and gentle spice.
Brilliant ruby-red. High-pitched red berry and floral scents show very good clarity and hints of garrigue and white pepper. Silky and sweet on the palate, offering fresh raspberry and cherry flavors that open up nicely on the back half. Closes sappy and very long, with resonating spiciness and smooth tannins. (JR)
Producer | Henri Bonneau |
Country | France |
Region | Rhone Valley |
Subregion | Chateauneuf-du-Pape |
Varietal | Grenache Blend |
Vintage | 2013 |
Sku | 12093 |
Size | 750ml |
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