2007 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieux Telegraphe "Telegramme"

I finally ventured into the domaine of the acclaimed Chateauneuf-du-Pape viticultural area this weekend. This area and its winemakers currently score 95+ points from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast magazines. As you would expect, these wines generally command a pretty penny.

Ah, but along comes Telegramme, the young wine from highly acclaimed winemaker Vieux Telegraphe. Previous vintages of Telegramme are mediocre at best so say the reviews, but 2007 looks like a winner. So I found one marked down at my local shop and decided to try it out.

As recommended, I "Venturied" and then decanted for about two hours. The result was clear, it mellowed into a very nice, bright, and fruitful red. It is clear that the structure of Telegramme will allow it to cellar for several more years, if you can wait for it. It can also be enjoyed now, unlike the larger offerings from Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Furthermore, the price is less than half of what you would expect from the premier vintings.

Expect fresh strawberries and raspberries on the tongue and nose. The finish is very refined and reminds one of a fine Cotes-du-Rhone, but possibly longer and smoother. It is composed of 90% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, but it doesn't present itself like other blends of this nature. I found it refined, bright, and quite enjoyable.

T-Scale 91. I've had others with similar taste and feel at a lower price, but none with the finish of this calibre. If you want to get into the French super-wine market, this is a pretty good place to start. Unlike others from this region, or from Bordeaux, this is ready to drink now. I found this for $38, but I've seen it for a bit less online. Definitely shoot for the 2007 as other vintages will not measure up to this one.

Alpha Omega syrah 2006

Do you belong to any winery clubs? If not, you might consider joining one. We belong to Alpha Omega's club and we receive four shipments per year. Most clubs have some discretion when choosing reds, whites, roses, or a combination depending upon which varietals winery produces. Bonuses of being a club member include first dibs on new releases, member's only bottles, and perks when visiting the winery.

Onto this month's shipment of Alpha Omega's 2006 and 2007 syrahs. According to the literature included with the shipment, these bottles are for club members only. All produced bottles were distributed through the club and none will be available to merchants or for those who visit the winery.

That's unfortunate. The 2006 is a very nice syrah actually. It's still a bit tight with strong tannins and great structure. It presents itself much like a big zinfandel upfront, but you soon get the spice you normally experience with syrah. It is quite pleasant throughout with much dark fruit, spice, and currant. Short, but nice finish.

I would hold onto this one for another two years or so. Tight now, but should mellow out into a dandy. I'll be holding the 2007 for another three years before dusting it off for show.

T-Scale 90. Unfortunately, you can't get it, but if you can, you should. This should be a 92+ in a year or two. Wines like this one make me a believer in syrah!

Navarro 2003 Pinot Noir - Anderson Valley

We received a nice six bottle Navarro gift set from my brother and his wife and ever since I've tried to find more Navarro wine. Alas, they do not distribute outside of the fine restaurant scene and their own shop... or so I thought.

Oh happy day, I found their pinot noir at one of my local shops! Sorry, we bought all they had. But if you can find it, get it.

Navarro is north of Sonoma on California's North Coast. Pinot must love it there with the warm days and cool nights. This bottle is a great example of American pinot made in the "Méthode à l'Ancienne" (see below). I'm sure Miles (Sideways) would be proud to partake of this one.

Nice nose with some earth and dark fruit. First sip brings up a light cherry and cola feel with a light complexity. Very nice finish which is quite Burgundian with a slight tartness. Very refreshing and light. This is a nice summer red that begs to be enjoyed outdoors. I'd take this red to the beach and set it next to my pool chair while tanning. How many reds can you take outside in heat? This is one.

T-Scale - 90. At $31, it's a good price for quality pinot noir. I would've thought this very hard to get as it is sold out at the winery, but hey, it's out there! Let me know if you find it or any other Navarro wines. Everything they make is very good +



"Méthode à l'Ancienne is a fancy way to say the 'old fashioned way' and it refers to the fact that we gently punch down the cap of our fermenting Pinot Noir rather than pumping- over." - from Navarro's website.