Domaine Vielle Julienne, Chateauneuf du Pape, les Petites Parcelles Rouge, Rhône, France, 2022

Producer Profile

Despite our already large portfolio of Châteauneuf estates, we did not hesitate when we had the opportunity to add Jean-Paul Daumen’s wines to our offering. These are very serious wines with a class coveted by many other producers.

With 10 hectares of vines at the very northern part of Châteauneuf du Pape and 5 hectares of Côtes du Rhône on the Lieu Dit Clavin, they are never the blockbusters produced by so many during the past decade, Vieille Julienne wines are completely unique and this is why they are so sought after!

Viticulture

“Les Petites Parcelles” translates to “the small plots,” referencing a selection of specific vineyard parcels within the estate, often on slightly less exposed sites or from younger vines within the Châteauneuf du Pape appellation. These plots benefit from the same biodynamic farming practices as the domaine’s grander cuvées—no synthetic chemicals, careful canopy management, and an emphasis on soil health. The terroir consists of sandy and clay-limestone soils with excellent drainage and good water retention. These conditions allow the vines to develop deep roots and produce concentrated grapes with natural balance. Yields are deliberately kept low, and all harvesting is done by hand, with strict sorting to ensure only the best fruit is used.

Winemaking

Grapes are sorted meticulously and fermented with indigenous yeasts in concrete vats. Depending on the vintage, some whole bunches may be included to enhance aromatic complexity and texture. Extraction is gentle to preserve freshness and finesse. After fermentation, the wine is aged in large neutral oak foudres or concrete tanks for around 12–18 months. The goal is to allow the wine to evolve slowly while avoiding overt oak influence. There is no fining or filtration before bottling, allowing the wine to retain its natural depth and sense of place.

Tasting Note

Châteauneuf du Pape with precision, structure, and aromatic complexity. In the glass, it shows a deep ruby colour with garnet reflections. The bouquet opens with ripe blackberries, cassis, and black cherry, lifted by notes of dried herbs (garrigue), cracked pepper, incense, and a touch of smoked meat. Subtle floral hints—lavender and violets—add finesse to its powerful core. Rich dark fruit flavours mingle with savoury spice, licorice, and earth, evolving into a long, resonant finish.

Food Matching

Classic pairings include roast lamb with rosemary, beef daube (Provençal beef stew), or duck confit.