Andre Brunel, Chateauneuf du Pape Cailloux Rouge Vintage:2007 These conditions worked for Merlot

These conditions worked for Merlot and Cabernet Franc

This is an expensive bottle for sure

the latter of which really comes up on the super-saline finish that is explosively long

(100% from vines in Aloxe and all domaine fruit)

pixelated tannins and seamless freshness

Andre Brunel, Chateauneuf du Pape Cailloux Rouge Vintage:2007 These conditions worked for MerlotThe 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blockbuster. Deep ruby colored and a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and the rest other permitted varieties, it offers up a big, sweet bouquet of kirsch, blackberries, ground herbs, pepper and licorice. Full bodied, textured and layered, it has terrific fruit intensity, no hard edges and a great finish. Drink this hedonistic beauty anytime over the coming decade or more.