B-21 Top Recommendation
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"This terrific estate is inching its way into the crème de la crème of Châteauneuf-du-Pape."
–Jeb Dunnuck
Called "one of the up-and-coming superstar estates of Chateauneuf du Pape" by Robert Parker a decade ago, Domain Durieu has quietly risen to the top of the appellation, producing its highly-rated single vineyard Lucile Avril Cuvee from 100+ year old Grenache vines. Boasting sumptuous layers of fruit with nuances of earthy spice and wild herbs, the 95pt 2019 Domaine Durieu Lucile Avril is a classically-styled, garrigue-scented CDP with mineral-laced acidity, an outstanding old vine cuvee of limited availability, priced well below its pedigree.
Releasing their first vintage of the Lucile Avril Cuvee over 20 years ago, Domaine Durieu caught the attention of critics and wine insiders alike, steadily building its reputation for exceptional quality under third generation winemaker Vincent Durieu. Sourced from a key parcel in the Farguerol lieu-dit just north of the town of Chateauneuf du Pape, the 2019 Lucile Avril is a blend of 80% Grenache with 10% Mourvedre and 10% Syrah, planted in soils dominated by the famed rolled "galet" stones of the region top vineyards. Vinifying the grapes separately with indigenous yeasts, winemaker Vincent Durieu aged the Grenache and Mourvedre in concrete tanks for 18 months, while utilizing new oak barrels to age the Syrah for 12 months before blending the 2019 Lucile Avril, building a framework of well-integrated tannins for decades of evolution. Tasting the range last month, this stunning 2019 might well be the best Lucile Avril produced, exceeding the excellent 2016.
Crafting "do not miss wines" that place it among the region's elite producers according to critic Jeb Dunnuck, Domain Durieu's 95pt 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Lucile Avril boasts youthful appeal and gorgeous structure poised to evolve in the cellar over the next decade and beyond, an exceptional small production, single vineyard cuvee that fans of powerful Southern Rhone reds won't want to miss. | 
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