Domaine La Barroche Chateauneuf du Pape Signature 2007《ZTF704》

Domaine La Barroche is one of the superstars of the Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation. With its historic winery and one of the oldest buildings in the region, Domaine La Barroche is renowned not for its long winemaking history but for its advanced winemaking techniques and modern vineyard management.

Domaine La Barroche was founded in 1703 by Alexander Barrot. In the late 19th century, Eugene Gabriel meticulously studied the local terroir to select the most suitable plots for growing grapes. In the 1970s, as many left the vineyards for factory work, Christian Barroche took over the winery, continuing the family tradition. In 2015, Domaine la Barroche underwent a major renovation and modernization of all its cellars and winemaking equipment, including the addition of new conical concrete vats for fermentation.

Currently, the winery is managed by brother and sister Julien and Laetitia. Sister Laetitia, bringing her feminine sensibility to the traditionally male-dominated world of viticulture, has become the backbone of the estate and an indispensable link between its diverse partners. Majoring in International Trade and Communications, Laetitia sees the world as a global village, with Châteauneuf-du-Pape at its heart.

After working for several major multinational corporations for over a decade, Laetitia answered the call of her hometown and returned to the vineyards of her birthplace. She hopes to further promote the rich terroir and exquisite wines of her family's rich history.

Brother Julien, a devoted and dedicated viticulturalist, joined the winery in 2002, having earned a business diploma in oenology at the age of 22. He exemplifies the spirit of a committed young winemaker, eager to learn, open-minded, and deeply respectful of the terroir and the techniques passed down through his father's generations. Owner Julien Barroche has a very interesting winemaking philosophy. In private conversation, he explained that his palate training has led him to favor the traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape winemaking method. Grapes are essentially fruits, so why seek out fruity flavors in wine?

Domaine La Barroche's vineyards cover nearly 15 hectares, planted with different grape varieties tailored to the microclimate. These include Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Cinsault, Clairette, and Vaccarese. Grenache was primarily planted in the early 20th century. 80% of the vineyard's soil is composed of surface sand and deep limestone, while the remaining 20% ​​is composed of clay, river pebbles, and sand, which are reddish due to the iron content.

The Signature 2007, crafted from grapes from vines over 70 years old, is a classic blend of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Using a large proportion of GSM (Grenache-Mourvèdre-Syrah) and smaller proportions of other varieties, it boasts a complex and layered flavor profile. Notes of red roses and violets are complemented by ripe dried cranberries and a hint of smoke. On the palate, rich, ripe red fruit flavors emerge, followed by notes of toast and animal hide. The mouthfeel is full-bodied and becomes even more refined with decanting.