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A Hedonistic Country Quaffer from Châteaneuf-du-Pape
A Hedonistic Country Quaffer from Châteaneuf-du-Pape
by Tom Wolf by Tom Wolf
2020 Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge “Le Pigeoulet”
2020 Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge “Le Pigeoulet”


Famille Brunier France | Southern Rhône | Vin de Pays de Vaucluse
For decades, the Brunier brothers of Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe have produced a world-class rouge from the southern Rhône Valley’s most prestigious appellation, Châteaneuf-du-Pape. With their Pigeoulet, they prove just as capable of mastering the hedonistic country quaffer, which teems with northern Provence’s most irresistible qualities: the succulent red and black fruit, stony core, hint of black olive, and garrigue.
The Bruniers farm the Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre that make up this cuvée on two distinct parcels: the first situated on the east side of the Rhône, near Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and the second farther east, along the lower, southwest-facing slopes of Mont Ventoux. The Bruniers’ vast experience in crafting elegant reds in this southern climate is on full display in this bottling. This was a warm year in the region, but the ethereal Pigeoulet showcases remarkable finesse and drinkability. Pair it with roast chicken or lamb, or alongside an assortment of hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, black olives, and the freshest pita you can find.


Wine Type: | red |
Vintage: | 2020 |
Bottle Size: | 750mL |
Blend: | 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 5% Carignan, 5% Cinsault |
Appellation: | Vin de Pays de Vaucluse |
Country: | France |
Region: | Southern Rhône |
Producer: | Famille Brunier |
Winemaker: | Brunier Family |
Vineyard: | 25 years average, 10 ha |
Soil: | Clay with sandy alluvial deposits |
Aging: | Wine ages for 18 months in 50% cement tanks, 50% foudres |
Farming: | Organic (practicing) |
Alcohol: | 14.5% |
More from this Producer or Region

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2023 Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge “Le Pigeoulet”
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April Adventures Club ~ This is about as quaffable as the region’s rouges get.

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Fragrant aromas of lavender and garrigue, notes of perfectly ripe black cherries, hints of black olive and stones.

About The Producer
Famille Brunier
Vignobles Brunier embodies the ensemble of the holdings by the Brunier family. Brothers Frédéric and Daniel are the fourth generation of their family to farm the land of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. They have worked hard to solidify the legacy left by their father, Henri, and their great-grandfather, Hippolyte. In 1986, the family complemented their portfolio, offering more affordable cuvées that showcase the diversity of terroirs within their holdings. The “Pigeoulet” and “Mégaphone” are fresh, rich in fruit and easy to appreciate young. The red Châteauneuf “Piedlong”, sourced from the Piélong lieu-dit, is a profoundly mineral wine that balances elegance and purity with the muscle that is found in this great appellation.
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Kermit once said...

Kermit once said...
You don’t have to be rich to cellar a great wine.