Domaine de la Janasse Châteauneuf-du-Pape Chaupin 2022

“Rich black cherry and strawberry fruit, with impressive density and palate weight. The balance is good, with fur-coat tannins and admirable freshness. Yet again, this vintage turns out a wine seemingly far too good for the climatic conditions – but the evidence is here. Will be ready much sooner than the Vieilles Vignes cuvée, and is very close if not equal in quality, but just in a less robust, structured style. Parcels of Grenache planted on lieux-dits Chapouin, La Janasse and La Crau, the oldest planted in 1912”

“The normal blend of the three parcels and all Grenache from the Chaupin lieu-dit that was fermented with a 30% whole clusters, the 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Chaupin reveals a medium ruby hue to go with gorgeous notes of framboise, sappy garrigue, spring flowers, and crushed stone. These carry to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated Chaupin offering terrific overall balance, beautiful tannic structure, and a great finish. As always, this cuvée shines for its incredible finesse and elegance. Drink bottles over the coming 10-15 years. It reminds me slightly of the 2011.”

“A superb, well-driven and precise 100% grenache. Lovely nose of sweet cherries, currants, wild herbs and sweet spices. Full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Intense and well-crafted, with a vivid core of sweet berries and spices on the center palate. There is plenty of energy and a solid frame of tannins coating the palate at this stage. Crushed raspberries in the finish with some orange peel character and excellent persistence. Driven and long. Try after 2028.”