2010 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Les Hauts-Lieux, Domaine de La Vieille Julienne
About Producer
Not often in the headlines, Domaine de La Vieille Julienne is a discreet estate that produces two sensational cuvées, this Les Hauts-Lieux and the Réservé (only released in select years), which can easily stand up to the finest crus of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Founded in the 17th century and in the same family ownership since 1905, it’s located in the northern section of the appellation, on the heights of the lieu-dit Clavin. The vineyards sit on a single block of 20ha, of which 13ha in Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. Jean-Paul Daumen, who took over the reins from his father Maxime in 1990, has converted the estate into biodynamic viticulture in 1998 and rolled out massive transformation works which have led to a spectacular rise in quality. Long considered as a handicap, the terroir of north-facing slopes is now very well adapted to the recent extreme climate conditions in the southern Rhône Valley.
Varietals
Blend of 70% grenache, 20% mourvèdre, 5% cinsault and 5% counoise. From a 4.5ha parcel of 70 year-old vines, 6,000 bottles produced for this debut vintage.
About Appellation
Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tradition and history are inextricably entwined with the Avignon Papacy. Prior to the 14th century, vineyards were owned in the region by the bishops of Avignon, but mostly for local consumption produce. Things drastically changed following the decision of Pope Clement V, former Archbishop of Bordeaux, to move the papal court in 1309 to Avignon. Said to be great lovers of Burgundy wines, Clement V and his successor John XXII also did much to improve local viticultural practices to such an extent that wines from the area became known as 'Vin du Pape', under John XXII. The appellation currently covers around 3,150ha of vineyards spread over five distinct terroirs between the towns of Avignon and Orange. A total of thirteen grape varieties are allowed to be used in red and white wines, with grenache (black, grey and white) being the star player, and often syrah, mourvèdre and cinsault in supporting roles.
Tasting Notes
Alluring nose of dark berries, plum compote, liquorice, anise and baking spices, luscious mouthfeel with broad structure, velvety texture and excellent concentration, multilayered flavours of berry marmalade, raspberry, blackberry, ripe stone fruits, kirsch liqueur, aniseed, peppery notes and forest floor supported by a firm mineral spine, juicy acidity and fine-grained tannins carrying through a long, voluptuous finish. This is a delicious, brilliantly crafted wine with composed poise, impressive aromatic purity and assertive personality. It’s lush, hedonistic and powerful yet remarkably balanced and amazingly fresh. A sheer delight indeed. (02/2022)