critic reviews
A new wine from Julien, his 2015 Vin de France comes mostly from a parcel of 65-year-old vines planted in a cooler, higher elevation parcel. In addition, it includes some of his declassified Chateauneuf du Pape grapes, hence the Vin de France label and not Cotes du Rhone (Chateauneuf du Pape is one of the few appellations that cannot be declassified to Cotes du Rhone). Made from 55% Grenache, 18% Syrah, 12% Mourvedre and the rest Cinsault and Carignan, it tastes like a Chateauneuf du Pape with its juicy black raspberry, violets, peppery herbs and distinct minerality. This comparison is certainly still valid on the palate, as well and its medium to full-bodied, concentrated and structured, with a sappy, grippy style that will evolve nicely for 7-8 years or more. Dont let the Vin de France label sway you, this is the real deal.