Domaine de la Janasse   Chateuneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes

2000 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes

By Domaine de la Janasse

2000 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes from Domaine de la Janasse, Rhone

The 2000 vintage of Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes by Domaine de la Janasse stands as a superb testament to the artistry and expertise inherent to vine craft. A noteworthy investment proposition in the wine world, this remarkable red manages to flawlessly articulate the intricacies of its terroir and vintage.

 

A Golden Year in Rhone, Captured in a Bottle

In 2000, the Rhone valley was blessed with balmy summer months followed by ideal autumn conditions, contributing to this exceptional vintage. Domaine de la Janasse masterfully employed these advantageous weather conditions mixed with their nuanced understanding of the vineyard to create this 2000 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes.

Subtly layering components of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, resulted in an expressively rich palate that this vintage is celebrated for. Notes of kirsch liqueur, black raspberries, and crushed rock are enveloped in smooth tannins and preserved freshness, eliciting an eventful sensory experience for every discerning wine investor.

 

Defining Vintage Greatness with Domaine de la Janasse

This particular Chateuneuf-du-Pape showcases old-vine Grenache's power when meticulously cultivated and astutely vinified. The Vieilles Vignes selection from Domaine de la Janasse gives weight both to tradition and innovation-driven viticulture practices in conceptualizing wines that represent their vintage remarkably well.

This 2000 rendition examined today illustrates a flavour structure dominated by its fruit; however, alongside are undertones of cedar and spices, ensuring depth and prolonged complexity. Such a meticulous blend ensures an investment that will delight the discerning palate while potentially growing in value with time.

 

Concluding Remarks

In conclusion, the 2000 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes from Domaine de la Janasse savours the uniqueness gifted by nature and facilitated through human expertise. Any wine lover or investor would certainly mark this vintage as a prized acquisition, not merely for its potential returns but also for its rich palate, finely honed over twenty plus years, and an ongoing testament to the beauty of Rhone-sourced reds.

Market price (GBP)

£1,050.00

12x75cl

Highest score

97

POP score

61.76

Scores and tasting notes

97

The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is even better, with another layer of texture and depth. Chocolate-laced fruits, cured meats, spice, crushed rock and sweet spice all show from this perfumed, up-front, sweetly fruited Chateauneuf, and it still has a core of concentrated fruit and solid tannin structure. I see no reason to hold off, but it too will thrill over the coming 3-5 years. One of the benchmark estates in the Rhone Valley, Domaine de la Janasse is run by the talented brother/sister pair of Christophe and Isabelle Sabon. Located in the northeastern portion of the region, near Courthezon, they produce an incredible range of wines, from their Vin de Pays, to their Cotes du Rones and world-class Chateauneuf du Papes, all of which are noteworthy. For this tasting, we started with the 1990s and went up through their 2007s. At this point, the ‘98s through the 2004s are all in varying degrees of full maturity, and drinking brilliantly. In addition, it’s also worth pointing out that these wines have the fruit and texture to dish out immense pleasure in their youth, so don’t be afraid to crack these new releases either. Both of the 1999s were drinking beautifully, and are up near the top of the vintage. Moving to the 2000s, I found that from this point forward, the wines started to show more freshness and vibrancy. Looking specifically at this vintage, these are still mature wines, yet they’re drinking beautifully. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Selections, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565

Jeb Dunnuck - The Wine Advocate, 27 August 2014

Vintage performance