Domaine de Panisse 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape, Confidence Vigneronne

Domaine de Panisse is a very small estate in Courthezon in the Southern Rhone that had been marked for demolition to make room for a roadway. Christine and Jean-Pierre Olivier acquired the property in the early 1990's and rescued and revived it. The property dates back to the late 1400's when it was owned by Lord Dominique de Panisse. Today the vineyards include 18 acres in the heart of the Chateauneuf du Pape AOP with mature vines up to 70 years of age.

This 2017 is 80% Grenache 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre. The grapes are hand harvested and fermentation on the skins lasts up to 25 days. The wine is then aged 50% in tanks and 50% in older Burgundy style barrels. The blend is made after a year of barrel aging. This cuvee "Confidence Vigneronne" means " Trust the Winemaker" and we do.


Vinous tasted from barrel scored this 93-94 saying "Deep shimmering violet. Vibrant cherry and raspberry liqueur aromas are complicated by suggestions of incense, exotic spices and candied flowers. Sappy and expansive on the palate, offering appealingly sweet red and blue fruit flavors energized by a spicy jolt of white pepper. Shows impressive depth of flavor as well as energy, and finishes impressively long and silky, with harmonious tannins and strong, floral-tinged persistence."


The Wine Advocate scored this 92 points saying "Aged half in demi-muids and half in tank, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Confidence Vigneronne is delicately herbal and floral, with deeper notes of raspberries and blueberries. Despite being full-bodied, this blend of 80% Grenache and 10% each Mourvèdre and Syrah comes across as light and airy in the mouth, elegant even, with fine, silky tannins and plenty of length. Drink this elegant offering over the next 6-7 years."

Available here for the first time (previously only sold in Europe) and the quality of this wine is well above the special price we're offering. But this is a tiny production, boutique wine and it's very limited so please don't wait!