TN: 2007 Ch. de Beaucastel Coudoulet de Beaucastel

I did buy some 2007 despite early reports of over ripeness, but the other 10 wines I am cellaring are CNduP, not CduR.

I was concerned with the ripeness of the wines but figured that I'd try one of these cotes du Rhones.

Dark, not overly ripe nose, mellow now without excess tannin, but ample fruit, nice notes of ripe fruit and faint anise in the nose, and a long balanced finish. Glad I gave in to impulse and cellared these. Based on this I think it may be time to open a bottle of the 2007 Vieux Donjon that I bought a case of based on one early tasting.

[David M. Bueker]

I'll be interested in your report on the Donjon. I think I still have a couple.

I opened my first bottle of the 2007 VD recently and it was awful - roasted, almost dead fruit, and no acidity. I hope it was a travel issue - maybe it was cooked somewhere along the way to BC? - and many people on CT love it, but I thought it was a caricature of a CDP. Hope you have better luck.

[Jenise]

John, similar experience. My note from 2020: Reminds me that I learned the descriptor "Californicated" with the '07 CdP vintage. Heavy, hot nose of roasting coffee beans with asphalt and jammy fruit on the palate. Cloying finish that can't end soon enough.

I was thinking of trying one soon - if it turns out to be as you say I may have a ready supply of stewing wine this winter!

Opened a bottle of 98 VD last night - excellent! Will post a note.

I also thought the 07 VD was kirschy and hot a few years ago (a 2001 next to it showed very well). I have a mag of 08 VD so hope it's a sign of the vintage, not a change in winemaking.

[Jenise]

Dale, there IS a change in winemaking here. They hired Philippe Cambie in 2006.

That's a little scary, but relieved to see a positive note from you re the '08 on CT. .

[Jenise]

Yes, it showed better than most that came after that, at least in our Vancouver vertical.

[David M. Bueker]

Dale, there IS a change in winemaking here. They hired Philippe Cambie in 2006.

Of course he has now passed away, so...