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Ultra Traditional, Ultra Tiny, Ultra Wine!
At only 20 acres in size, this miniscule, ultra-traditional estate produces tiny quantities of just one wine: no luxury cuvee, no specialty blend, just a stunningly pure and complex Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Owner Claude Courtil is the godson of none other than Henri Bonneau, one of the most legendary and revered producers in the region, and he learned everything he knows about winemaking from his godfather. Henri and Claude share a deeply held commitment to natural winemaking: manual vineyard work, traditional aging in large foudres, and bottling without intrusive fining and filtration. The blend consists of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre. A reserved, introspective man, Courtil sold his entire production to negociants until the 1996 vintage, and he has been producing steadily more impressive and complete wine ever since. This is truly a special domaine, and one that is extremely deserving of your attention. Reviews Robert Parker 90+ Points
The outstanding 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits a darker, plum/garnet/ruby hue as well as an evolved, but complex bouquet of kirsch liqueur, lavender, new saddle leather, spice box, and garrigue. It is an unadorned, pure wine with the kirsch/black cherry liqueur character following through across the attack, mid-palate, and finish. Quasi-rustic tannins kick in at the finish, but there is more than sufficient substance to stand up to the wine’s structure. Nevertheless, I recommend 1-2 years of bottle age, and consumption over the following 12-15 years.
Wine Spectator 92 Points
Enticing, with pastis and warm fig reduction aromas and flavors leading the way, backed by mulled currant fruit, black tea and plum jam notes. The long finish flaunts the fruit of the vintage, while maintaining its balance. An impressive showing for this domaine. Best from 2010 through 2023.–JM
International Wine Cellar 91-94 Points
Saturated ruby. Rich red and dark berry liqueur aromas are complicated by white pepper, garrigue and smoky minerals. Refreshing, delineated raspberry and black cherry flavors show impressive depth without excess weight, thanks to fresh mineral snap on the back. There's a pinot noir-like elegance and purity to this wine that's quite alluring. |
