Domaine de la Janasse Châteaneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes 2018 MG

Domaine de la Janasse’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes 2018 in magnum is a powerful, old-vine expression of the southern Rhône at its most generous and refined. Drawn from some of the estate’s oldest parcels, this cuvée is known for its depth, richness and remarkable ability to age, with the larger 1.5 L format enhancing complexity over time. The 2018 continues a long run of critically acclaimed vintages, offering a full-bodied, textural wine that marries concentration with a distinctly savory, mineral backbone.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2018 Vieilles Vignes is deep, opaque ruby with a violet rim, hinting at both intensity and youth. The nose unfurls gradually: at first a little reserved, then opening to ripe mixed berries—raspberry coulis, blackberry and black cherry—layered with notes of salted licorice, dark chocolate, garrigue herbs and a subtle crushed rock minerality. On the palate, this is broad, mouth-filling and voluminous, with that signature Janasse richness wrapped in a velvety texture. Ripe red and black fruits dominate at first, followed by cocoa, anise, dried lavender and a faint smoked meat complexity. The tannins are abundant yet fine-grained and supportive, giving structure to the wine’s almost hedonistic generosity. The finish is very long, driven by a savory, saline edge and the dusty essence of crushed stone that keeps everything lifted and fresh. In magnum, this 2018 has excellent aging potential: it should drink beautifully from now with a good decant, but is likely to evolve and gain tertiary complexity over 15–20 years or more.

Production
Vieilles Vignes is sourced from some of Janasse’s oldest low-yielding parcels in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, many planted with Grenache in the 1920s, rooted in a mix of classic galets roulés (rounded river stones), sandy soils and clay-limestone. These diverse terroirs contribute both power and finesse, with sand lending aromatic lift and stones providing ripeness and density. Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal maturity, often with careful sorting in the vineyard and at the cellar. The blend is typically dominated by old-vine Grenache, supported by smaller proportions of Mourvèdre and Syrah. Depending on parcel and vintage, the fruit may be partially destemmed, then fermented in tank with temperature control to preserve fruit purity while allowing for a gentle yet complete extraction. Aging usually takes place over about a year in a combination of concrete tanks, large foudres and a modest portion of smaller oak barrels, allowing the wine to gain texture and complexity without being overwhelmed by wood.

Food & Serving
This is a natural partner for richly flavored, slow-cooked dishes: think braised lamb shanks with rosemary, grilled ribeye with herb butter, duck with black cherry or fig, or game dishes such as venison stew. It also shines alongside hearty Mediterranean fare—daube de boeuf, cassoulet, or roasted vegetables with olive oil and Provençal herbs—as well as aged hard cheeses like Comté or Pecorino. Serve at 16–18°C (about 60–64°F); in warmer rooms, a brief chill before serving is recommended. Given its youth and concentration, decanting for 1.5–3 hours will help the 2018 unwind and reveal its full aromatic range, especially from magnum.

Producer
Founded in 1973 by Aimé Sabon and now run by his children, Christophe and Isabelle, Domaine de la Janasse has grown from a modest family estate into one of the leading lights of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the southern Rhône. Based in Courthézon, the domaine farms a patchwork of top parcels across the appellation, including prized old-vine sites that give exceptional concentration and character. Janasse is widely respected for its meticulous vineyard work, low yields and sensitive, terroir-focused winemaking that eschews heavy oak in favor of clarity and depth. Over the last few decades, the estate has earned consistently high praise from international critics, with the Vieilles Vignes cuvée in particular recognized as one of the benchmark, collectible wines of the region.

We deliver within 2 - 6 business days. You can choose whether it should be to a parcel shop or home delivery. Free delivery to both parcel shops and your front door. Our store partners primarily use GLS, DPD, UPS and DHL for deliveries. We cover deliveries to the majority of countries in Europe.