WTN: Chateauneuf\-du-Pape, Brunier, La Crau 1999

First taste was of Syrah with Grenache behind. 15 minutes later it was much riper, deeper, Syrah. Later, the Grenache returned. Well structured, not particularly tannic or acidic. Steak wine and totally enjoyable! With a lamb chop Provencale a couple of days later, the Grenache moved toward the fore, nicely balancing the lamb. Overall, as good a wine as I've had this year, and I've had a couple of good ones.
Details: 14% alcohol, bought at Beltramo's, I think, in February 2002. $34 after mixed case discount.

Lamb provencale with a '99 CdP. You did good John!

The steak was a dry-aged T-bone from Willowside Meats. Excellent steak, mesquite grilled. The chop was a double-cut rib chop, and I used an old Pierre Franey recipe. Life is good!

Mentioning the actual name of the wine, Vieux Telegraphe, would make it easier to find these note in the future, John.

Brunier owns La Roquette, Pallieres etc as well. La Crau is not the name of the wne, it is just the lieu-dit where t is grown.]

[David M. Bueker]

1999: not a heralded Chateauneuf vintage, but a very drinkable one.

I'll try to be good next time, Bill!

Just a gentle suggestion, John, not a criticism. I might be the one searching for your note!

1999: not a heralded Chateauneuf vintage, but a very drinkable one.

VT made an exceptionally potent 1999. The Brunier brothers did something (more than usual?) right in that vintage.

Mark Lipton