The most expensive cuvee is the 2009 Vacqueyras 1717, which is produced from vines over 60 years of age. A blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah aged completely in new oak casks, it is a more modern-styled, less -typique- as the French would say, well-made, dense wine with more pain grille/toast notes intermixed with espresso roast, kirsch, black currants and licorice. It is a full-bodied effort with moderate tannins, but the wood is certainly there. As are all the wines of Arnoux et Fils, it is an impeccably made Vacqueyras. Drink it over the next 6-8 years.
(Not yet released)
With approximately 100 acres of vines in Vacqueyras, Arnoux et Fils is one of the largest of the family-owned, estate-bottled producers.
Importer: Grape Expectations, Raleigh, NC ; tel. (919) 781-1655