2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réservé Dom. de la Vieille Julienne

A modern-day legend in the making is the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Reserve from Jean-Paul Daumen, one of the greatest young wines I've ever tasted. This Grenache-dominated effort was brought up all in foudre and tastes like the essence of this incredible terroir located on the northern edge of Châteauneuf- du-Pape. Deep purple-colored, with an intoxicating bouquet of black raspberries, crushed herbs, black licorice, spring flowers, and spice, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, multi- dimensional texture, a huge mid-palate, and a finish that goes on for over a minute. Not far off the style of the Les Trois Sources, yet with another level of concentration, it has a certain accessibility yet won't be at its best for another 4-5 years, but it will keep for another two decades or more. 2023 - 2048.

The color is deep, purple blue. It's almost opaque. The wine is off the charts. There is a beautiful purity of fruit. The melange of fruits runs from black to deep red. The wine is mouth coating. But it is also light on its feet. The finish is seamless, remaining with you for close to 60 seconds. This is another contender for the wine of the vintage, and that's really saying something, considering how many stunning wines were produced this year. The wine is usually made from 90% Grenache, 5% Syrah and 5% Mourvedre. Only 250 cases were produced of this stunner. So, if this seems like your thing, run, do not walk to the store and grab a few bottles.

Lurid ruby. Expansive, mineral-accented red and blue fruit preserve, incense and potpourri aromas are complemented by exotic spice and smoky mineral flourishes. Sweet and seamless, showing superb depth to the vivid boysenberry, black raspberry and spicecake flavors, which are supported by a firm spine of juicy acidity. Finishes extremely long and broad, with harmonious tannins lending shape to juicy, alluring sweet red berry preserve and candied lavender notes.

Intense, featuring warmed fig, blackberry and black currant compote flavors that spill forth, harnessed just in time by licorice snap, worn leather and roasted alder accents. Garrigue elements are inlaid throughout. Shows power and depth, with cut and drive to match. Very serious. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2022 through 2040.