# Châteauneuf du Pape Domaine de la Vieille Julienne (2022)

- **Producer:** Domaine de la Vieille Julienne
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Counoise
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €65
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, blackcurrant, blackberry, liquorice, black pepper, cedar, smoke

## About this wine

Owned by the Daumen family since 1905, Domaine de la Vieille Julienne is situated at the northern limit of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation in the Southern Rhône. Under Jean-Paul Daumen and his son Antoine, the estate converted to certified organic and biodynamic viticulture. The vineyards feature ancient vines averaging 75+ years old planted on north-facing terraced slopes. This unique microclimate preserves natural acidity and freshness, creating wines renowned for mineral depth and elegance.

## Interesting facts

- The estate has been owned by the Daumen family since 1905, with winemaking roots dating to the 17th century.
- Vineyards feature centenarian Grenache vines cultivated on north-facing terraced slopes.
- Certified biodynamic by Demeter, practicing traditional co-fermentation of mixed grape varieties.

## Food pairing

The robust tannins, dark fruit concentration, and vibrant acidity of this full-bodied red require rich, protein-dense meats and savory mushroom dishes to balance the wine's power and bring out its mineral complexity.

## Wine making process

Grapes are hand-harvested in small crates with rigorous double sorting in the vineyard and cellar. Winemaking follows traditional, non-interventionist practices using natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The native grape varieties are co-fermented in traditional vessels. Aging takes place for approximately 18 months in large oak foudres to avoid overpowering wood influence, and the wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered.