Xavier Vignon Cuvée Anonyme X Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012*, 15% alc., dry, red, full-body

Grape varieties:

Impossible to give grape percentages as this cuvee originates from collections vines where different grape types are planted together. The powerful body of this wine relies on over a hundred years old Grenache, complemented by very old Vaccarèse , Counoise, Mourvèdre, Cinsault , Black Terret , Muscardin and even white grapes including Clairette and Picpoul. More than limited yield: three feet of vines have been used for each bottle produced.

Characteristics:

Deep dark color with almost black hue, on the nose the wine offers notes of black fruits, liquorice and garrigue, as well as smoky notes brought by the ageing. The mouthfeel reveals an ample and generous wine with a great balance and a great minerality. Tannins are well present but already soft.

Maturation:

Ageing during more than 15 months : 50 % French barrels (Allier – Tronçais), 25% oak vats, 25% concrete tanks

Food pairing:

Salted breast of veal with caper sauce - Duck in olives sauce - Roasted pigeon - Lamb of 7 hours - Strong cheeses (Maroilles, Livarot...) - Teppanyaki wagyu beef