Domaine de la Vieille Julienne, Côtes du Rhône Rouge, Lieu Dit Clavin, Southern Rhône, France, 2021

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

The soil is Miocene alluvial terraces, modern post-Würmian alluvium (primarily yellow sand with clay and limestone). North-facing terraces, superficial tilling (scrapping and hoeing), spray based on copper and sulphur with added teas. Biodynamic agriculture (Demeter certified).

Winemaking

Hand-harvested with double selection (vineyard and cellar). First selection in the vineyard and second selection in the cellar. Entirely destemmed, natural yeast, no added sulphites, 20-day vatting in temperature-controlled concrete with gentle extraction. One year in large old French oak, and further maturation for six months in the bottle.

Tasting Note

This Côtes du Rhône exhibits a deep ruby colour with violet glimmers. The nose is complex and expressive, offering ripe black cherry, plum, and blackberry aromas entwined with fragrant Provençal herbs, cracked black pepper, and hints of smoked leather. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with polished yet structured tannins and a vibrant acidity that breathes life into layers of dark fruit, spice, and subtle earthy undertones. The finish is long, savoury, and persistent, capturing the essence of its terroir beautifully.

Food Matching

Slow-braised beef cheek in a red wine jus, or a rich wild boar stew spiced with juniper berries and rosemary.