2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Cuvée Etienne Gonnet, Domaine Font de Michelle
A small production cuvée, which comprises 65% old vine Grenache, 20% Syrah and 15% Mourvèdre. The aromas of this young Châteauneuf-du-Pape are restrained, yet hint at brooding dark fruit. This is far bolder than the tradition, with kirsch characters, a slight creamy texture, and silky fine tannins. Rich and generous in style, this never shows too sweet an accent, always erring on the savoury side. Peppery, fine and expressive, this has the structure to age over the long-term. The Gonnets have excelled in this vintage.