Why it matters
The producer
The Musée du Vin Brotte was established in 1972 by Jeanne Brotte. Maison Brotte's named reds include La Fiole du Pape and Création Grosset, two wines built from several grape varieties rather than a single grape. La Fiole uses Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. Création Grosset uses Grenache noir, Carignan, Syrah and Mourvèdre, with a smooth, fruity and spicy house style.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
The Musée du Vin Brotte is located in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where it operates as a wine museum and tasting venue. La Fiole du Pape carries Châteauneuf-du-Pape in its name, while Création Grosset carries AOC Cairanne. The two wines therefore place different Rhône appellation names beside different grape proportions.
Wines to know
The range in view
La Fiole du Pape is a Châteauneuf-du-Pape red assembled from Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. Création Grosset is an AOC Cairanne red composed of 60% Grenache noir, 15% Carignan, 15% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, at 14% alcohol. The two bottles share a multi grape approach, but their appellation names and proportions are different.
La Fiole du Pape shows dark compote fruit, garrigue, licorice and soft leather, with sour cherry, dust, fresh red berries and oak spice. The palate is ample and velvety, with silky tannins and controlled warmth. Its finish is long and spiced, with blonde tobacco and a hint of cocoa.