Domaine Jérôme Gradassi
Jérôme Gradassi started his career as a chef, gaining a Michelin star with his last restaurant, L’Ile Sonnante, in Avignon. In 2003, he decided to sell his restaurant to take over the family estate started by his great grandfather in 1930: 12 beautiful acres in Châteauneuf-du-Pape planted with about 75% Grenache and 25% Mourvèdre. His property is divided into 6 parcels located in the lieux-dits of Palestor, Bois Dauphin, and Cabrière, all north of the villages, depending on the commune of Orange. These parcels have a much cooler climate which can resist serious drought and traditionally produce elegant and very aromatic wines, rather than powerful and extracted. Farming is fully organic with absolutely no use of pesticides, herbicides, or chemicals. Jérôme works the vineyards traditionally, and harvests are done by hand. Grapes are vinified in full clusters, in concrete tanks carved into the rock which maintains an optimum temperature naturally. At 50 years old Jerome is looking at many more years of living and sharing his passion for great wines.
Wines from Domaine Jérôme Gradassi
Domaine Jérôme Gradassi Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge
Blend: 80% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre
Aging: 12 months in neutral French oak barrels, four to ten years old
The opaque ruby color is the first clue that this is Châteauneuf in the tradition of Bonneau and Rayas, not some over-the-top modern sledgehammer. Ripe black and blue fruits stand out on the nose, but they sit right alongside fresh violet, dried herbs, licorice, and woodsmoke. Subtle floral and spice nuances enliven broad, palate-coating cassis and bitter cherry flavors. Rich yet lively wine, with a strong closing punch, supple tannins, and lingering smokiness. Enjoy now or over the next 15+ years with grilled garlicky sausages, fresh tomatoes, fresh cheeses, and roast lamb with oil-cured olives.
Domaine Jérôme Gradassi Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc
Blend: 100% Clairette Rosé
Aging: 10 months in stainless steel tank
Jérôme Gradassi, one of the smallest Châteauneuf-du-Pape estates with only 12 acres of vines divided into 6 parcels spread over the best terroirs in the region, only makes this 400 bottle production in the best vintages. Aromas of ripe and round white fruits, fennel, quince, mandarin and almond paste gently assimilate themselves into a round, rich, and minerally palate with a long finish. Unique, complex and delicious, to be enjoyed over the next 8 to 20 years.
Domaine Jérôme Gradassi Tech Sheets:
click the compression icon to the right to download a zip archive
