2009 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone

Chateauneuf-du-Awesome is back by popular demand! Every year we search for a Chateauneuf-du-Pape that is of such high-caliber that it gets crowned "Chateauneuf-du-Awesome."
    This year, the "awesome" award goes to the library release of the stellar 2009 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne. Why would you reach for a younger Chateauneuf-du-Pape when this seven year old beauty is ready to drink now?
    What makes an awesome Chateauneuf? First, the bottle age: this wine is showing beautiful integration of fruit and structure. Second, the aromas: the room filled when we started pouring. Third, the palate: long, lush fruit danced for what seemed like minutes. Fourth, 80 year old vines: the depth of these roots extract an uncanny sense of place.
    "This captures terrific ripeness intensity and density with stunning mouthfeel as layer upon layer of fig sauce braised plum cassis cherry eau de vie and pastis glide along together with notes of spice ganache and graphite hanging in reserve. The very long finish has cut and precision despite its weight. Should age effortlessly. Best from 2014 through 2035." Wine Spectator
    With bottle and wonderful expression, this 2009 never tasted so fine. Enjoy!