Coming from a higher elevation, cooler terroir and limestone soils, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hauts Lieux is a total rock star in the vintage and checks in as a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and the balance Counoise and Cinsault, which was aged all in foudre. Harvested very late (and this estate normally harvests on the early side) and not wrapping up until October, it possesses gorgeous purity, with mineral-tinged aromas of blackberry, currants, licorice, ground herbs and violets all soaring from the glass. An all-around powerful, structured and rich 2011, with a full-bodied mouthfeel, terrific acidity and big tannin, it will be one of the longest-lived wines in the vintage. Give it 2-3 years in the cellar, and drink bottles through 2026. Drink 2017-2026.
Located in the northern part of the appellation, in mostly sandy soils and a cooler terroir, Domaine de La Vieille Julienne is run by the incredibly talented Jean-Paul Daumen. In addition to his Chateauneuf and Cotes du Rhone releases, he started a negociant label call Daumen, with releases from Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas, Lirac and Cotes du Rhone. These are all high quality efforts and show the classic characteristics of the regions they come from. Looking at the Domaine de la Vieille Julienne releases, these 2011s and 2012s are some of the most exciting wines in the vintages and should not be missed!
Available in the U.S. through Vin Connect Inc., tel. (415) 857-5740; www.vinconnect.com
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