2012 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes
By Domaine de la Janasse
Unveiling the 2012 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes from Domaine de la Janasse, a Glimpse of Rhone Elegance
An extraordinary vintage masterfully brought to life by the dedicated hands of Domaine de la Janasse, the 2012 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes doesn't merely embrace the iconic tastes of the Rhone region. Instead, it exhales them with some breaths that encompass centuries-old vine wisdom. It's an expression of a vintage worth investing in, calling out to be discovered, savoured and amply revered.
A reflection of time and terroir
The 2012 vintage in Rhone was marked by a year that had both challenging climatic conditions and abundant rewards. Harvest was less generous than usual but the small yield boasted extraordinarily concentrated grapes. This is incredibly apparent in the Vieilles Vignes which noticeably benefits from this low-yield intensity.
Crafted from old Grenache vines, inexorably tied to their stony terroir, the 2012 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes exudes generous ripe fruit flavours on the palate and an aroma that captivates with nuanced scents of spice and earth. Pure and resilient, much like the vines themselves, this wine stands as an honest testament to its vintage, holding court with every sip.
Unmasking magnificence
However, it's not just about what's under the cork that makes this 2012 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes from Domaine de la Janasse such a fascinating prospect for the discerning investor. The potential for ageing brings its own allure. The structure and balance underlying this wine, combined with its dense concentration, indicates a strong capability for evolution and complexity over time.
Indeed, the 2012 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is not merely a token of the Rhone terroir or a reflection of a challenging year successfully navigated. It's a tangible representation of what careful stewardship of old vines can achieve, a meaningful investment into the beauty of viticultural resilience.
In conclusion: A Vintage Worth Investing
Investing in the world of fine wines brings with it an appeal that combines both fiscal prudence and sensual enjoyment. Few wines encapsulate this more than the 2012 Chateuneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes from Domaine de la Janasse- a vintage that flawlessly expresses the character and strength from a challenging year in Rhone, preserved lovingly by respected producer Domaine de la Janasse. Future years hold promising rewards for both its taste and value. Savour it; invest in it; reminisce in its resiliency.
Market price (SGD)
$1,010.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
38.13
Scores and tasting notes
Up in the top handful of wines in the vintage (which should come as no surprise to anyone who follows this estate), the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is a full-bodied, beautifully concentrated, rich and layered Châteauneuf that doesn’t put a foot wrong. Made from 85% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre and the rest Syrah, it offers blockbuster notes of blackberry, liquid-violets, spice and serious minerality to go with awesome mid-palate depth and layers of sweet tannin. Like the Cuvee Chaupin, it will be better in another handful of years and thrill through 2027.
Jeb Dunnuck - The Wine Advocate, 30 October 2014