Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape Domaine Vieux Télégraphe - La Crau - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape “La Crau” 2018 is a captivating reflection of the southern Rhône’s grandeur. Crafted predominantly from Grenache, supported by Mourvèdre, Syrah, and a touch of other permitted varieties, it hails from the fabled plateau of La Crau—one of the appellation’s finest terroirs. The stones (galets roulés) capturing and releasing heat, alongside deep red clay and sandy soils, confer both power and finesse. The 2018 vintage, marked by a warm summer with timely rains, produced wines of generosity and balance. Vieux Télégraphe ages its wines traditionally in large foudres, ensuring subtle oak influence and a true expression of both grape and place. In the glass, expect abundant aromas of ripe black cherry, kirsch, garrigue, and exotic spices, with robust yet elegant tannins supporting a layered, persistent finish.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the jewel of the southern Rhône Valley, an appellation rooted in centuries of winegrowing, its name recalling the historical sojourn of the popes in Avignon. The Mediterranean climate is warm and dry, with the mistral wind keeping vines healthy and concentrating flavours. The galets roulés are a unique feature, enabling slow, even ripening and an unmistakable complexity in the resulting wines. Tradition runs deep here, with generations perfecting blends and viticulture to craft some of France’s most sought-after reds.

This distinguished wine shines alongside richly flavoured dishes. You might savour it with slow-cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic, a classic daube provençale, or venison in a juniper sauce. Regional partners like grilled duck breast with black olives, or ratatouille spiked with local herbs, further celebrate its Rhône origins. Mature cheeses such as aged Comté or sheep’s milk tomme are also excellent companions.

For a full appreciation of its complexity, decant La Crau 2018 for at least an hour before serving. The ideal temperature lies between 16-18°C, allowing the ripe fruit, earthy nuances, and savoury character to unfold gracefully in the glass.