Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe 2023 Chateauneuf du Pape Telegramme

 A vibrant, expressive take on classic Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the 2023 Télégramme delivers rich red and dark fruit intensity with spicy complexity and a silky yet structured finish. Built for both early approachability and medium-term cellaring, it balances Provençal warmth with Rhône precision — a compelling choice for lovers of traditional, terroir-driven Southern Rhône reds.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced by Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe, one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most revered estates, Télégramme is crafted from fruit grown on the estate’s celebrated terroirs in and around the famed Plateau de la Crau. The 2023 vintage draws upon a blend dominated by Grenache, with contributions from Syrah, Mourvèdre, and other permitted Rhône varieties, reflecting both the appellation’s classic style and the estate’s multi-generational mastery.

Vineyards are farmed with mindful, sustainable practices, and the grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness. Fermentation uses indigenous yeasts and careful temperature control to build aromatic complexity, followed by aging in a combination of concrete, large foudres, and neutral barrels — preserving fresh fruit character while integrating structure and spice.

Critics Reviews & Scores

Critics widely praise Télégramme for its polish, depth, and drinkability, typically landing it in the high 90s and low 90s point range among respected reviewers:

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
92–94 points — Noted for its expressive aromatics, concentration of red berry and spice, and silky texture that gives early appeal while hinting at further development with cellaring.

Jeb Dunnuck
93–95 points — Highlighting its layered fruit core, supple tannins, and Provençal nuance, praising the way Grenache delivers bright fruit while Syrah and Mourvèdre lend savory depth.

Vinous
93 points — Commending its purity of fruit, elegant structure, and lively acidity — an embodiment of the 2023 Rhône vintage’s freshness.

Across critics, the consensus emphasizes Télégramme’s balance of fruit intensity, spice complexity, and refined tannin structure, making it one of the most compelling values among mature Châteauneuf reds.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Bright red cherry and raspberry aromas lead, interwoven with hints of blackberry, garrigue herbs, baking spice, and subtle licorice. Floral notes of violet and rose petal add finesse while a streak of minerality underscores the profile.

Palate:
Medium-to-full with juicy red fruit core — raspberry, wild strawberry, and black cherry — framed by notes of pepper, clove, and sweet herbs. Silky tannins and gentle oak influence support the fruit, with Mourvèdre adding savory complexity and Syrah contributing deeper color and spice.

Finish:
Lingering and refined, with persistent red fruit, spice, and a balanced acidity that leads into a smooth, resonant close — ideal for both contemporary enjoyment and short-to-medium term bottle aging.

Quick Overview