Exploring Cairanne (6) Domaine Brusset
Website: https://www.domainebrusset.fr/en/
This domaine dates back to 1947, and was based on a small 3 hectare vineyard in Cairanne. It was established by André Brusset, the grandfather of the current proprietor, Laurent Brusset. Initially it focused on olives, apricots and cherries as well as vines. But a generational shift in 1966 saw the purchase of new vineyards in the Massif Uchaux and Gigondas.
Laurent, the current generation began working on the family property 1990, and bought more vineyards in Cairanne and Rasteau, with the estate swelling to 76 hectares under vine, with 38 of these in Cairranne. It’s an entirely estate-based operation with no purchased grapes or wine, producing 250 000 bottles a year. The vineyards, which are low yielding, are now certified organic, and all fermentations are wild yeast.
Domaine Brusset Cairanne Blanc L’Esprit de Papet 2023 France
This is a blend of 40% Roussanne, 40% Clairette and 20% Viognier, all fermented in used wood. No sulfites at press, settled 2 days, then fermented in small oak. Bottled with 20 ppm sulfites. Floral and expressive with notes of pear drops and white peach. The palate is richly textured with some creaminess and a touch of aniseed. Very textural with some peach and apricot from the Viognier, finishing salty. 92/100
Domaine Brusset Cairanne Vieilles Vignes 2022 France
14% alcohol. Grenache and Syrah from clay/limestone soils with a southerly exposition. 40% in demi-muid barrel and 60% in tank. Lovely floral black cherry aromatics leading to a lush, sweetly fruited but balanced palate showing broad cherry and berry fruits with a silky texture and notes of pepper and olive, as well as a touch of meatiness. 93/100
CAIRANNE
