Description
Region: Rhône Valley
Producer: Domaine de La Vieille Julienne
Harvest: 2024
Grape: Grenache Noir, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvedre, Bourboulenc, clairette and Grenache Blanc
Type: Red
Size: 75CL
Vineyard : 5,5 ha (13.6 acres)
Average age : 85 years old
On the heights of « Clavin », sands and red clays covers Miocene safres. This is the early maturity part of the terroir of slopes, producing tender and seductive wines, with the full bodied character borrowed to the adjacent « les Trois Sources »
These are very serious wines in a class coveted by many other producers. With 10ha of vines at the very northern part of Châteauneuf du Pape and 5ha of Côtes du Rhône on the Lieu Dit Clavin, Vieille Julienne wines are far from the blockbusters produced by so many in the region during the past decade; they are completely unique, which explains why they are so sought after
WINEMAKING
Hand-harvested with double selection (vineyard and cellar). First selection in the vineyard and second selection in the cellar. Entirely destemmed, natural yeast, no added sulphites, 20-day vatting in temperature-controlled concrete with gentle extraction. One year in large old French oak, and further maturation for six months in the bottle.
TASTING NOTE
This Côtes du Rhône exhibits a deep ruby colour with violet glimmers. The nose is complex and expressive, offering ripe black cherry, plum, and blackberry aromas entwined with fragrant Provençal herbs, cracked black pepper, and hints of smoked leather. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with polished yet structured tannins and a vibrant acidity that breathes life into layers of dark fruit, spice, and subtle earthy undertones. The finish is long, savoury, and persistent, capturing the essence of its terroir beautifully.
FOOD MATCHING
Slow-braised beef cheek in a red wine jus, or a rich wild boar stew spiced with juniper berries and rosemary.