The Duclaux family traces its history back to the 17th century from when Louis Duclaux was the first consul of Chateauneuf du Pape in 1627. This notable position continued in the family until 1831. Jerome Quiot took over full responsibility for Domaine Duclaux in 1991 and in 2001 this domaine was given by the last owner of the Duclaux family to Jerome Quiot's two children: Florence and Jean-Baptiste.
The Wine
Twelve Hectares (30 acres) are planted predominantly with Grenache and Mouvedre, along with other varieties such Syrah, Counoise, Vacarese, Picpoul, Terret Noir and Muscardin. The vines are planted over ten different parcels, giving it all of the character of the Chateauneuf region. The vines have an average age of 50 years.
A particular distinction of Domaine Duclaux is that the vineyards are largely planted with the different varieties mixed together in the same parcel, which allows for later harvesting with the grapes being much riper. As well, the wide variety of soil types ensures maximum quality of the grapes. Many of the parcels of vines are planted on the traditional "galets" or round, heavy stones washed down from the Alps, with underlying areas of alluvial soil mixed with stony sand and heavier chalky clay. All harvesting is done by hand, with very severe selection of the best grapes.
The vinification follows strict careful selection of the best grapes, with a long, slow fermentation over three or four weeks. The wines are then matured in vats and oak barrels for a minimum of 24 months before bottling at the domaine.
The Profile
The wine has great concentration of color and flavor, with a balance of fruit and tannin that ensures further maturation in bottle of 10-15 years.
