The 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape Tradition, which has been called “Signature” in previous vintages, has more saturated color than the Terroir, contains slightly more Syrah, and is perhaps a tad richer, but very precocious and evolved. It will be best drunk in its first 5-7 years of life. (Not yet released)Julian Barrot would say he has had very little to do with it, and that it is all his magical terroir, which sits just to the east of the great vineyard of Rayas. How long will it last? Certainly 100% Grenache cuvees tend to age faster than those with some Mourvedre or Syrah in the blend, but I would think, assuming anyone of human origin can actually resist this wine, it should evolve for at least 15 or more years. Domaine La Barroche in many ways typifies what has happened in Chateauneuf du Pape over the last decade. Until 2003, the Barrot family (who can trace their origins back to the 1600s in the village) sold all of their wine in bulk to negociants. But then young son Julian was given responsibility and, in a very short period, a succession of brilliant wines has emerged, starting with the 2004 and building on that success with the 2005s, 2006s, and 2007s. This is not a small estate, totaling just under 32 acres, and at present there is the potential for four very different styles of Chateauneuf du Pape to be produced. In 2008 they only produced two cuvees.Importers: The Sorting Table, LLC, Napa, CA; tel. (415) 491-4724

The 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape Signature exhibits a dark ruby color along with attractive loamy soil, raspberry, cherry and garrigue notes, and medium body. This fully mature 2008 is best drunk over the next 3-4 years. Young, talented, committed Julien Barot is quickly building a reputation for producing brilliant wines at Domaine La Barroche. Only two Chateauneuf du Papes were produced in 2008.Importer: The Sorting Table, LLC, Napa, CA; tel. (415) 491-4724