2007 Domaine Durieu "Lucile Avril" Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Easily the best vintage of this cuvee I’ve tasted, the 2007 Domaine Durieu Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve Lucile Avril, a blend of 90% old vine Grenache and the rest a mix of Mourvèdre and Syrah, delivers a thrilling mix of lavender, roasted garrigue, melted licorice, noir, and kirsch liqueur like qualities that give way to a seamless, full-bodied Châteauneuf-du-Pape that has no hard edges, perfect balance, and a heady, decadent finish that pumps out loads of fruit and richness. A fantastic drink right now with an hour or two decant, this beauty should continue to shine for 12-15 years or more. (3/2012)

I’ve always loved this cuvee and the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Lucile Avril was singing on this occasion. Made from 90% Grenache and the rest Mourvèdre and Syrah, it offers rich, full-bodied aromas and flavors of roasted Provencal herbs, charred meats, olives and bloody meat. Beautifully textured, concentrated, authoritatively flavored and a big mouthful of a Chateauneuf du Pape, it will continue to drink beautifully for another decade or more. (JD) (2/2017)