Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes from Domaine de la Janasse is a powerful and age-worthy cuvée built predominantly from old-vine Grenache, with smaller contributions from Syrah and Mourvèdre. The grapes are sourced from low-yielding vines, many of which are several decades old, planted on classic soils of galets roulés and clay that enhance both concentration and structure.
Vinification involves extended maceration to extract depth and complexity, followed by aging in a combination of large oak foudres and smaller barrels, ensuring balance between fruit expression and oak influence. Aromatically, the wine is intense and layered, revealing dark fruit notes such as blackberry and black cherry, alongside hints of dried herbs, pepper, licorice, and earthy nuances.
On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with a dense core of fruit supported by firm yet ripe tannins and a freshness that keeps the wine in balance. The texture is rich but controlled, avoiding excess heaviness through precise structure and acidity.
With bottle age, it develops more complex characteristics, including leather, spice, and garrigue notes typical of mature Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The finish is long and persistent, combining fruit concentration with savory elements.
This wine is designed for long-term aging, often reaching its peak after a decade or more, and stands as one of the domaine’s most expressive interpretations of old-vine Grenache in the region.
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