2013 Dm de la Vieille Julienne Chateauneuf du Pape les Trois Sources, Southern Rhone

2013 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Châteauneuf du Pape Les Trois Sources is a wine that shows the refined, thoughtful side of Châteauneuf du Pape, built more on detail and freshness than sheer power. Les Trois Sources comes from a specific parcel on the northern edge of the appellation, where three natural springs sit beneath old vines planted on sandy soils with pockets of limestone. This cooler, freer draining terroir gives the wine lift, perfume and finesse, even in warmer years.

Domaine de la Vieille Julienne is led by Jean Paul Daumen, one of the quiet pioneers of organic and biodynamic farming in the Southern Rhône. His approach is deeply respectful of nature and place, with low yields, old vines and minimal intervention in the cellar. Les Trois Sources is made from very old Grenache, with small amounts of Mourvèdre and Syrah, fermented gently and aged in large, neutral vessels to preserve purity and site expression.

The 2013 vintage was more classical in style, favouring balance over opulence, and Les Trois Sources captures that beautifully. In the glass, it opens with red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry, layered with rose petal, dried herbs and subtle spice. There is a sandy, almost talc like texture to the wine, alongside a savoury, earthy undertone that adds complexity without weight.

The palate is supple and precise, with fine tannins, fresh acidity and a long, graceful finish that feels effortless rather than imposing. It is a Châteauneuf du Pape that draws you in rather than overwhelms you, rewarding attention and time in the glass.

This is a wine that shines at the table. Roast lamb, duck, grilled vegetables, mushroom dishes or Provençal cuisine all work beautifully. While already expressive, it has the structure to age gracefully, gaining further savoury nuance and complexity over many years.

Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Les Trois Sources 2013 is a reminder that the greatest wines of Châteauneuf du Pape can be just as much about elegance and terroir as they are about power.