Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Les Vieilles Vignes” AOP 2017

C. Raffelt

Domaine de Villeneuve has 8.4 hectares in the north of the Châteauf-du-Pape appellation, not far from Château de Beaucastel. The biodynamically cultivated vines are between 30 and more than 100 years old. 70 % Grenache are used here, as well as 16 % Mourvèdre and 8 % Syrah, 4 % Cinsault and 2 % Clairette. The grapes were completely destemmed. The wine was fermented in cement tanks. It matured for 18 months in barrels, demi-muids and used barriques.

Bright cherry red, delicate violet reflections

The nose is enormously marked by Mediterranean warmth and spices. Stewed plums with cinnamon and gingerbread come to mind. Clove, star anise, cinnamon and a little juniper. Plums, blackberries and mulberries, figs and rose hips form a wall of fruit that has to be overcome. Behind this aromatic hurdle are the aromas of the south. Garrigue, rosemary, thyme and a hint of lavender. Lilac and violets complement this floral idea and draw soft features on its face. Roasted coffee as well as dark chocolate next to black pepper provide further spice. Finally, a little liquorice can be detected.

On the palate, it shows itself in its most elegant form. Full of juiciness, finesse and surprisingly stony. Dark and cool in appearance, although the alcoholic sweetness also brings warming factors. The acidity sets in skilfully and lends vitalising peaks again and again. Pleasantly tart, it offers us its adult side. Sublime, timeless and far away from trends. It works for what it is and how it is. Above all, the spiciness and floral nuances come into their own. The fruit is now dominated by fig and rosehip.