2011 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes
By Domaine de la Janasse
The 2011 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes from Domaine de la Janasse, Rhone
The gastronomic grandeur of the Rhone shines through in the 2011 vintage of Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes. Domaine de la Janasse masterfully wields a legacy of viticulture innovation to gift us this particular treasure. Experience alone will reveal the panoramic narrative it effortlessly weaves on the palate.
An azure dance of complexity and harmony
Domaine de la Janasse expertly harmonizes tradition, vision and the climatic bi-fold of 2011 - a year which began with an exceptionally dry spring spice only to unveil a cooler duty-bound summer. This duality dances azure-bright in the 2011 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes emerging as a meandering riverbed of aromatic complexity.
Unveiling slowly yet confidently, this wine serves an entrée of black cherry tartness which gives way to warm whispers of Mediterranean scrubland; rosemary and thyme playfully tiptoeing upon the tongue. Ripe black fruits are held aloft by the sturdy sinews of mature tannins before foraying into bold strokes of dark chocolate allure.
Investing in climate-smithed masterpieces
The understated elegance of 2011 points befittingly to the foresight imperative in fine wine investments. Deft navigation of climate capriciousness shapes the chronicle of each grape, embedding in them stories that age uncorks with unwavering fidelity. Investing in wines like the 2011 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is not simply securing a taste pleasure but also acquiring a vinous chronicle that interweaves climatic threads with human artistry.
Striking a balance between velvety opulence and vivacious acidity, this Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes stands as a monument to skillful winemaking. It is a eloquent announcement of the providential partnership between a seasoned vineyard and an exceptionally challenging vintage. Engaging, enlightening, and ever-intriguing, this wine confirms the discerning choice for a true connoisseur seeking aged wisdom in their collection.
Market price (CAD)
$1,180.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
44.38
Scores and tasting notes
And a candidate for the wine of the vintage, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is always a rough blend of 85% Grenache and the balance Syrah, Mourvedre, Clairette and other permitted varieties, that has the Grenache aged all in foudre and the Syrah and Mourvedre aged in one-third new barrels (that’s less than 6% of the blend in new barrels). Exhibiting gorgeous black fruits, spice-box, toast, licorice and roasted meat-like qualities on the nose, it is full-bodied, concentrated and layered on the palate, with loads of texture, yet delivers no weight, heat, or ever puts a foot wrong. Shockingly good in the vintage, it should not be missed. Hats off to Christophe and Isabelle. Drink now-2027. Located in the town of Courthezon, and covering 38 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape and 100 acres in Cotes du Rhone, Domaine de la Janasse is run by the brother/sister pair, Christophe and Isabelle Sabon. While 2011 was a difficult vintage throughout the region, you wouldn’t know it by tasting here. These wines are superb across the board and should not be missed. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Selections, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565
Jeb Dunnuck - The Wine Advocate, 30 October 2013