Time to spill: Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a high-stakes gamble, but Vieille Julienne’s Réservé dares to redefine the stakes. Jean-Paul Daumen’s flagship wine isn’t just concentrated—it’s a masterclass in balancing power and precision. At its core, this Grenache-driven cuvée thrives on tension, where bold tannins meet floral elegance, and ripe fruit clings to a mineral backbone. It’s a wine that demands attention, yet rewards with a clarity that feels almost paradoxical for its intensity.
The 2015 vintage is a textbook example of this duality. Deep ruby hues swirl with black cherry and smoked plum, while a whisper of violets cuts through the density. The 2016, though, leans into a darker, almost brooding profile—think blackcurrant, graphite, and a saline lift that suggests coastal influence. These vintages reveal how Daumen navigates Châteauneuf’s extremes without succumbing to its pitfalls. The 2019 and 2020 releases, meanwhile, showcase a more refined approach, with brighter acidity and a touch of citrus that softens the wine’s edges. Yet even in these, the heart remains Grenache: bold, unapologetic, and alive.
What sets Réservé apart is its ability to evolve. A 2015 might drink like a young beast, but with age, it reveals layers of leather, tobacco, and a hauntingly earthy finish. The 2020, still youthful, hints at this potential, with a saline minerality that suggests it’ll age gracefully. Daumen’s philosophy is clear: this isn’t about overpowering—it’s about precision. Every element serves the terroir, from the clay-limestone soils to the 40-year-old vines that yield small, intensely flavored grapes.
Key points: – Réservé’s balance hinges on tension between fruit, tannin, and minerality. – Vintages like 2015 and 2020 highlight its capacity to age gracefully. – Daumen’s focus on terroir ensures the wine remains rooted in its origins.
Close: What vintage of Vieille Julienne’s Réservé has surprised you most.
Close: What vintage of Vieille Julienne’s Réservé has surprised you most? Share your story below.
Questions & Answers
What makes Vieille Julienne’s Réservé special?
It’s a top-tier Grenache from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, known for its complexity and depth. Matt Walls praises its balance and elegance, making it a standout wine.
Where is Vieille Julienne’s Réservé from?
It comes from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a renowned Rhône Valley appellation. The wine showcases the region’s terroir and winemaking expertise.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
