We’re tickled pink, er red, that three of our red wines get major nods in the October 2018 issue of Wine & Spirits Magazine, including two reds that garnered 92 points each. It’s quite an honor seeing as the October issue is always heavy-hitting. And with autumn at our doorsteps, there’s no better time to get cozy by the fireplace and savor some spicy ruby reds. Let these be the first you—and the others you encourage—open.
Domaine Duclaux 2011 Chateauneuf-du-Pape not only received 92 points, but was also named Year’s Best Southern Rhone. The Duclaux Family traces its history back to the 17th century when Louis Duclaux was Mayor of Chateauneuf du Pape in 1627, a notable position continued in the family until 1831. Jerome Quiot took over full responsibility for Domaine Duclaux in 1987, and in 2001 this domaine was given by the last owner of the Duclaux family to Jerome Quiot’s two children: Florence and Jean-Baptiste. Thirty acres are planted predominantly with Grenache and Mouvedre, along with other varieties such Syrah, Counoise, Vacarese, Picpoul, Terret Noir and Muscardin. This property is noted for its old vines, some of which reach over 100 years old.
On its tail, Domaine du Vieux Lazaret 2015 Chateauneuf-du-Pape also earned 92 points and was named a Best Buy in addition to Year’s Best Southern Rhone. The Domaine du Vieux Lazaret vineyards spread across 93 hectares (230 acres) and split into 35 different parcels of vines throughout A.O.C. Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It is among the largest domaines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape today, with 83 hectares (205 acres) planted in red grape varieties, 10 in white. The number of parcels enables the Domaine to give greater complexity to its wines due to the diversity of soils, grape types and differing ages of vines.
Following not far behind in this high-points club was Chateau du Trignon 2012 Rasteau, which earned 90 points and was named yet another Year’s Best Southern Rhone. The Chateau du Trignon wine estate was acquired in 1895 by Joseph Roux and run by his descendants until 2007, when Pascal Roux, a passionate winemaker, who had kept the quality of the wine at the highest levels, sold the vineyard to another esteemed Rhone Valley winemaker, Jerome Quiot.
The Quiot Family, of Chateauneuf-du-Pape fame, certainly has a handle on winemaking in the Southern Rhone. Grab yourself some bottles, call some friends over and enjoy the fruits of their labor this fall. With points like these, you know you’re going to enjoy these wines.