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93 WA.
"The 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Alexis Establet is a knockout effort that has fabulous fruit intensity, medium to full-bodied richness and a sexy, voluptuous style. Coming all from 100+-year-old Grenache vines planted in sand and pebble soils, and aged 12 months in foudre and oak tanks, it gives up notions of black raspberry, mulled blackberries, crushed flowers and herbes de Provence. Already reasonably approachable, enjoy it over the coming decade. Domaine du Grand Tinel is run with considerable success by the Jeaune Family, with consulting advice from Philippe Cambie. A large estate, it covers over 130 acres spread throughout the appellation. They produce an outstanding white as well as two Chateauneufs in most vintage, a classic cuvee made from mostly Grenache, and the cuvee Alexis Establet, which is 100% Grenache from ancient vintage. Elevage here is a mix of modern and traditional, with the grapes completely destemmed and aging occurring mostly in foudre, with some stainless steel and small barrels." Wine Advocate #215, Oct 2014 |