Vineyards
The La Crau vineyard, owned by the Brunier family, is among Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s finest. Located on a high, stony plateau in the south-eastern appellation, its soils are covered in heat-retaining galets roulés, supported by a base of Miocene-era molasse and clay. Vines average 70 years in age, creating wines with deep structure and mineral complexity.
Winemaking
A Rhône blend of 65% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 15% Syrah, with small amounts of Cinsault and Clairette. Hand-harvested grapes undergo careful sorting and are traditionally fermented in stainless steel and wooden vats. Following fermentation, the wine ages 20–22 months in large French oak foudres, then bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Appearance
Deep garnet with ruby highlights, indicating its density and depth.
Nose
Aromas of black cherry, raspberry, and black tea, layered with crushed stone and herbal garrigue, capture its origin.
Palate
Full-bodied and elegant, with ripe black fruits, fine tannins, and a mineral core. Hints of liquorice and tea lend complexity to the finish, which will develop further over time.
Food pairing
Complements lamb shoulder, roasted duck, and hearty stews, as well as aged cheeses that mirror its depth.
Accolades
96 points, The Wine Advocate, 95 points, Wine Spectator
Background story
Legendary producer situated within the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe has been owned and run by the Brunier family for over a century. Named after a 19th-century telegraph station that once operated on the plateau, the domaine spans the renowned La Crau vineyard, a rocky expanse known for producing some of the appellation’s most intense and characterful wines. The Bruniers’ commitment to tradition and quality winemaking is reflected in their hands-on approach, from manual harvesting and careful sorting to an extended maturation process in French oak foudres, imbuing the wine with depth, elegance and a sense of place.