"The best Chateauneuf-du-Papes are among the most natural expressions of grapes, place and vintage.” - Robert Parker
Searching for a clear cut example of what wine from Southern Rhone should taste like at an affordable price? Look no further than the 2007 E. Guigal Chateauneuf du Pape. After being aged in oak barrels for 36 months, this blend of mostly Grenache and the rest Syrah and Mourvedre is sure to impress your senses.
Eitenne Guigal started Establissements Guigal, or Ets. Guigal for short, in 1946 after leaving Vidal Fleury where he worked for 15 years. 38 years later, his son Marcel was able to purchase Vidal Fleury which he has managed since. Etienne and his wife Marcelle passed away in 1988 leaving Marcel and his son Phillipe to continue their family legacy in the world of wine. Today, Guigal is one of the top names in Southern Rhone, with quality wines that reveal to the drinker the earth from which the vines are grown.
Chateauneuf du Papes are powerful, big red wines. I decided to pair this bottle with slow-roasted, tenderized chicken which marinated in pineapple infused barbeque sauce for 6 hours. Served over brown rice with steamed vegetables on the side, this CDP complemented the dish quite nicely, which is exactly what I expected.
After opening this bottle and letting it breathe for an hour, it gave hints of dark berries, some smoke and earth on the nose. What really stood out was the balance, silky tannins and beautiful finish. It was the perfect wine to enjoy with friends and family as it continued to open after hours of drinking, eating and laughing. The 93-point 2007 Guigal Chateauneuf du Pape is a quality wine for the fantastic price of $39.99.
"One of the finest Chateauneufs made by Guigal, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 85% Grenache and the rest Syrah and Mourvedre. Full-bodied with lots of kirsch, blackberry, raspberry, camphor and licorice, this is a classic example of both Chateauneuf du Pape and Provencal viticulture. It is aged in both tank and foudre for 3-4 years prior to being released. Drink it over the next 20 years. It is amazing that Guigal can consistently produce a wine of this majesty." - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate