Cotes du Rhone, Est Ouest, Domaine Andre Brunel

Producer Note

André Brunel's family first settled in Châteauneuf du Pape in the 18th century. They own 22 hectares in Châteauneuf du Pape and 40 hectares in the Côtes du Rhône. André Brunel’s skills have earned him worldwide recognition for the intensity and concentration of his wines, combining modern technical expertise with the traditional power of the region. His son Fabrice has now joined the company to continue the family tradition.

Vineyard

The vines are grown in two plots located to the east and west of the Rhône (hence the name) and impart the complexity of the different Rhône terroirs in the resulting wine. The complementary qualities from these two terroirs allow the 35 year old Grenache vines to reveal all their potential: elegance and finesse come from the small yields of 35 hectolitres per hectare and clay-limestone subsoil of the Saint Geniès de Comolas terroir in the Gard, while the round pebbles and clay subsoil of the Travaillan in the Vaucluse imparts structure and power to the blend.

Winemaking

The grapes were 100% de-stemmed and crushed prior to being pressed. The maceration and fermentation took place in temperature controlled tanks. Vinification lasted between 20 and 30 days, with rack and returns and punching down of the cap, extracting phenolic compounds and resulting in more fruit-forward characteristics. The cuvées were aged in vats to preserve the freshness and purity of fruit and were then bottled without fining, just a light earth filtering.

Tasting Note

Spicy with exuberant ripe red fruit framed by a good structure, rounded tannins and a lovely balance. A delicious and approachable Rhône blend with an elegant finish.

Serving Suggestion

A fantastically versatile red, which accompanies red meats and charcuterie

Grape

Grenache 75%, Cinsault 15%, Syrah 10%