The first vintage was released in 1989, when Antoine, Stephane's father, became a "Papy" (a grandpa).
The wine is produced from a selection of the best vines, best grapes and best barrels.
This cuvee "leancienne" (in the old-fashioned way) is produced from old vines Syrah planted to granite soils. Aged for 24 months in French oak demi-muids (big barrels), it has been bottled without fining or filtration. Deep ruby color. Intense aromas of pepper and violet. Cassis, tapenade, wood nuances. Full bodied, rich and round on the palate. Fine tannins, violet, pepper and cassis. Elegance and finesse. A baby Cote-Rotie.

"Deep ruby. Sexy, perfumed aromas of raspberry, cherry preserves, potpourri and cured meat. Midweight red and dark berry flavors shows very good depth, with no rough edges or obvious tannins. The finish is sweet and impressively pure. This spent 24 months in demi-muids."
- Tanzer's International Wine Cellar (Jan. 09), 91 pts