Domaine Brusset Cairanne, Southern Rhône

In 1947, with his reputation firmly established in Cairanne, Daniel Brusset's father followed his vision to develop vineyards on Les-Hauts-de-Montmirail. By 1971, when Gigondas was elevated from Côtes du Rhône Villages-Gigondas to its own AOC, Brusset was already one of the region's best producers. The family had taken a risk and invested heavily in what they perceived as excellent rugged mountain land, ignored by neighbours who preferred easier, flatter terrain. Today Brusset is the owner of some of the most spectacular terraced vineyards in Gigondas, all on the formidable Dentelles, the sharp fingers of rock behind the village of Gigondas. Highly stressed vines, low yields, meticulous vinification, and skillful use of some new oak produce wines of surprising quality and character.

Côtes du Rhône 2007 Rouge Laurent Brusset A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault. It is remarkably appealing. This surprisingly rich, round, warm, medium bodied Côtes du Rhône also shows moderate tannin and good balancing acidity. Enjoyable now, it will sustain over the next five to six years. Definitely a find and a little gem at the price.

Gigondas 2006 Tradition "Le Grand Montmirail" A blend of low yielding, hand picked vines comprising 65% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 15% Mouvèdre and 5% Cinsault. 60% is fermented in vats, the balance in 2 to 4 years old demi-muids. The wine boasts a deep carmine colour, ripe red fruit aromas with a touch of mineral and vanilla. The palate is generously full-bodied with silky tannins and has an exceptionally well integrated finish. "Inky ruby. Suave, perfumed bouquet evokes blackberry and cassis, with a strong dark chocolate quality. Chewy dark fruit preserve flavours are supported by chunky tannins, which lend this a serious personality. Fresher on the finish, which emphasizes sweet red berries and bitter cherry. This needs cellar time." 89+ (?) points, Stephen Tanzer, Jan/Feb 2008

Gigondas 2005 "Les Hauts de Montmirail" Low yielding vines grown on small steep terraces produce a wine of immense depth and concentration. The soil itself is a combination of clay and rock located below the great Jurassic calcareous ridge of the "Dentelles de Montmirail". Owing to the steep aspect of the vineyard, the grapes are all hand-picked. The finished wine comprises 55% Grenache, 25% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah and is matured in 100% French oak, a significant portion of which is new. This wine will benefit from 8 or more years cellaring to reach its peak. Tasting notes: To the eye, a very deep, dark crimson robe. The bouquet is rich, fruity, spicy and complex. On the palate a very round and powerful, long-lasting flavour of blackberry and chocolate. The tannins have a consistent, harmonious feel, and the finish is round and pleasurable. "Opaque purple. Powerful, deep aromas of dark berries, plum, tobacco and graphite are brightened by a zesty floral quality. Serious and weighty, with brooding kirsch and candied plum flavours, chewy tannins and a finishing note of bitter chocolate. The tannins really grip the teeth and yet this does not come across as hard." 88-91 points, Stephen Tanzer, Jan/Feb 2008

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All wines are available by the unmixed case to Licensees and Private Consumers, subject to availability.

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