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.
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