Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes Janasse 2017 (750ML)

97 Points, Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes derives from parcels planted on classic clay and galets roulés soils. It's 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% other varieties. Tight, intense, even clenched, it's in need of several years' cellaring before it becomes truly enjoyable to drink. For now, those gorgeous black cherries are restrained behind a firm wall of tannins. Full-bodied and rich, this is ripe, it just requires patience." 8/19

94 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator: "Ripe and fresh, with an engaging beam of cassis, dark plum and boysenberry puree flavors, supported by light anise, graphite and sweet tobacco notes. Shows good juicy energy and a seriously long finish. Drink now through 2035." 8/19

98 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, www.jebdunnuck.com: [#62 Wine of 2019] "The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is another killer effort from this estate. Coming from the La Janasse and La Crau lieux-dits and brought up in foudre, its deep purple color is followed by blockbuster notes of crème de cassis, blackberries, chocolate, graphite, and earthy, rocky, mineral-like nuances. It's deep and full-bodied, with a ripe, powerful yet balanced style and a great finish. A classic example of this cuvée. it's going to benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for two decades or more." 8/19