2004 Domaine de Marcoux CdP Vieilles Vignes & 2006 Vieux Donjon CdP

Two classic CdP's.  Great comparison of terroir and vine age. Both wines were decanted and let open up for about 90 mins before serving.  We had a few other wines being served as well, so it was a good opportunity to let these CdP's really open up and see how they developed over the course of about 7 hours.

First experience with the Marcoux Vieilles Vignes  (have had the regular cuvee).  Mostly Grenache (from 100 year old vines) with a small dollop of Cinsault. Sourced from La Crau, Gallimardes and Esquirons lieux-dits. As with all great wines, the first thing that comes to mind is balance.  This is a beautiful expression of CdP ... gossamer tannins, pure blackberry fruit, white pepper, hints of creosote and a certain expression of  garrigue that I find unique (and instantly identifiable) to La Crau.  The gravitas in character of the old vines is readily apparent compared to the Vieux Donjon ...the Marcoux VV being elegant and powerful without being ponderous.  Underlying minerality complemented ribeye steaks amazingly well. 

The most immediate impression of the Vieux Donjon was delicious upfront fruit with a more fragrant nose,  but much thinner underneath than the Marcoux VV's rich palate.  A more traditional blend of Grenache,  Syrah and Mourvedre.  A good wine on its own... 

The Marcoux VV was WOTN.  An enchanting cuvee that keep unveiling more and more complexity as the night went on...