2019 Dm de la Vieille Julienne Reserve Châteauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone

The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Reserve is another magical wine, and I might have rated this cuvée a perfect score more than any other Southern Rhône. Unquestionably in the same realm as the 2017, 2016, 2010, 2005, 2003, and 2001, it has an incredible, full-bodied, massive style that somehow stays perfectly balanced, with flawless integration of its fruit, tannins, acidity, and alcohol. Lots of red, blue, and black fruits, loamy earth, Asian spice, licorice, and violet nuances emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, building yet polished tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s a sexier, more opulent wine than the Les Hauts-Lieux release yet has the same perfect tannins that are so rare to find in the vintage. (11/2021)

100 points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com

Domaine de la Vieille Julienne is one of the Rhône Valley's most revered estates, with Jean Paul Daumen regarded as one of Châteauneuf du Pape's most influential and talented winemakers. A pioneer of organic and biodynamic viticulture, Daumen has spent decades refining a philosophy that places vineyard expression above all else. The Réserve is the domaine's flagship wine, produced only in exceptional vintages from some of the oldest and finest parcels on the estate, making it one of the most coveted Grenache based wines in the Rhône.

The outstanding 2019 vintage delivered fruit of extraordinary concentration, balance and freshness. Sourced predominantly from ancient Grenache vines, with small amounts of Mourvèdre, Syrah and Counoise, the wine comes from vineyards planted on a complex mosaic of galets roulés, clay and limestone soils. Low yields and meticulous farming allow the terroir to shine through with remarkable clarity, while traditional winemaking preserves both purity and longevity.

Deep garnet crimson in colour, the bouquet is intensely layered and captivating. Aromas of blackberry, black cherry and raspberry compote intertwine with lavender, wild thyme and dried rosemary. As the wine opens, notes of licorice, crushed stone, dark chocolate and exotic spice emerge, revealing extraordinary depth and complexity. The palate is powerful yet remarkably refined, delivering immense concentration without heaviness. Waves of dark fruits, savoury garrigue and mineral nuances flow seamlessly across the palate, supported by velvety tannins and vibrant acidity. The finish is exceptionally long, unfolding with spice, floral notes and stony minerality for minutes.

This is a wine built for unforgettable meals and long term cellaring. Pair it with slow roasted lamb shoulder, venison loin, beef daube, duck confit or truffle laden mushroom dishes. While already magnificent with extended decanting, it will continue to evolve gracefully for two decades or more, revealing ever greater complexity and detail.