Domaine de La Janasse Chaupin Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2011 (750ML)

95 WA / 92-94 RP / 93 VM / 92 WS

Coming from a cooler, sandy terroir in the northeastern part of the appellation, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin (which comes 80% from the Chaupoin lieu-dit and 20% from the La Janasse lieu-dit, hence the subtle name change) is 100% Grenache, from vines planted in 1912, thats aged two-thirds in foudre and one-third in demi-muid. Gorgeous all around, with plenty of similarities to the traditional cuvee, yet slightly richer and fuller, it delivers beautiful mulled red and black fruits, licorice, spice and tinges of stony minerality on the nose. Full-bodied, supple, seamless and elegant, with fine tannin, it makes the most of a difficult vintage and is certainly one of the top 10-12 wines. Drink now-2023. Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate

The brilliant 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin boasts abundant amounts of mulberry, lavender, black cherry, licorice and spring flower characteristics. Stunningly rich, full-bodied and opulent, it should age effortlessly for at least a decade. It is unquestionably one of the candidates for wine of the vintage. Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

Dark ruby. Black and blue fruit scents show serious power and excellent focus. Sappy, expansive and alluringly sweet, offering palate-staining boysenberry and cherry-cola flavors and a touch of spicecake. Floral and mineral notes build on the potent finish, which is framed by smooth, fully absorbed tannins. Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media

Bright kirsch, bitter cherry and pomegranate notes are lined with hints of shiso leaf and plum pit. Lively acidity holds the finish, while this fleshes out steadily in the glass, showing darker anise and blackberry notes, with subtle minerality. Best from 2014 through 2026. 350 cases imported. James Molesworth, Wine Specatator