A blockbuster effort displaying lavish richness as well as extraordinary finesse elegance and freshness the dark ruby/purple-tinged 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Petits Pieds d'Armand was fashioned from ancient vines planted in 1899 in the famed sector known as La Crau. Aged in tank and a few demi-muids it exhibits sumptuous aromas of kirsch liqueur spring flowers licorice the seaweed wrapper used in sushi restaurants called Nori and hints of pepper and spice. Revealing enormous richness purity finesse elegance and impeccable balance this stunning wine is one of the vintage's most compelling examples of ancient vine Grenache made in an unmanipulated style with no make-up. It can be drunk now or cellared for two decades.

Shows the ripeness of the vintage with a touch more intensity than most as a wide range of inviting blueberry plum fig and boysenberry flavors are spiked with sweet spice graphite and licorice notes. The long rounded finish has great buried grip. Drink now through 2030. 450 cases made. -JM