17. Cask sample. Juicy, lively, inviting nose. Notes of tabasco and white pepper. Sweet, succulent, tight tannins. Surprisingly open and ready already, yet still has texture and structure.
Drink 2025-2034
90-92. The 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Télégramme is the only 2022 Châteauneuf produced for Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe due to the hailstorm. A field blend (the estate says they have no idea what the final blend was), it’s nevertheless a beautiful Vieux Télégraphe with a classic Vieux Télégraphe nose in its ripe red and black fruits, peppery garrigue, licorice, iron, and distinct minerality. Medium to full-bodied, it has rock-solid concentration, some building, firmer tannins, and remarkable length. It should certainly be an outstanding wine.
91-94. Showing more concentration and intensity than normal, the 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape Telegramme also delivers strawberry and cherry notes. It’s medium to full-bodied, with ample tannin and length. I’m sure the quality of this cuvée is scant consolation for the complete loss of the family’s La Crau bottling to hail, but customers should recognize the Bruniers’ efforts to maintain their high standards.