Bottle Notes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape

2008 Domaine de la Janasse Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Bottle Notes

Domaine de la Janasse is located in Courthezon, in the Southern Rhone Valley, and it is one of the region’s brightest stars. The Sabon family has been growing grapes in the valley for several generations, but it wasn’t until 1973 that Aime Sabon began making wine under the name Domaine de la Janasse. The wines became truly noteworthy in the 1990s, after Aime’s son Christophe graduated from oenology college in Beaune and returned to the domaine bringing new ideas about wine production and viticulture. Janasse owns 136 acres of vineyards divided into 15 parcels, and also makes Cotes du Rhone and white wines, all of which are praised by reviewers.

Ruby red in color. 14.5% ABV. Brooding nose of dark fruits, asphalt and garrigue. Medium to full bodied with ample acidity. Throwing substantial sediment. Black raspberry, kirsch and roasted herbs on the palate. Medium length on the finish. Classically styled CdP from a more modern producer. The wine over delivers in a mediocre vintage. Best over the next several years.

My rating: 91 points.

Current vintages of the base CdP will set you back $50 and are certainly worth the tariff.

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