CDP Vieilles Vignes, Domaine de la Janasse 2019

Lastly, the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes is another tour de force from this estate, who are clearly firing on all cylinders today. A blend of 85% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah that’s brought up in a mix of foudre and barrel, its deep purple hue is followed by a rich, powerful, full-bodied wine offering ample cassis and darker berry fruits, notes of ground pepper, cured meats, and scorched earth, ripe, building tannins, incredible balance, and a great finish. It’s going to flirt with perfection at maturity, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it still drinking brilliantly at age 30.

Lovers of brilliant Châteauneuf du Pape should snatch up bottles of the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes, which comes mostly from the northeastern sector of the appellation, from the La Janasse lieu-dit as well as from the La Crau lieu-dit. Revealing a deeper ruby/plum color to go with a spectacular bouquet of peppery garrigue, smoked meats, blackcurrants, black cherries, and truffly earth, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness and has no hard edges, with building tannins and another blockbuster of a finish. While this wine is always rich and powerful, it’s the level of elegance and purity that really sets it apart in this vintage. Give bottles 2-3 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following 20+ years or more.