The bluest of Chateauneuf du Pape bluebloods, the Vielles Vignes cuvee from Grand Veneur is, once again, the highest rated wine of a very, very fine vintage in the Southern Rhone. Established in the northern part of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in the commune of Orange, the Jaume family has been dedicated to the art of wine growing since 1826. Founded by Mathieu Jaume, the Domaine is now run by the Fifth and Sixth generations of Jaumes: Alain Jaume and his children Christophe, Sébastien, and Hélène. Grand Veneur is entirely grown in accordance with certified organic agricultural practices. Yields are extremely low and the concentration of the Grenache and Mourvedre grown here (both 45% of the cuvee, the rest being Syrah) here is simply amazing. The Grenache provides the wine’s amazing plushness and extravagant palate while the Mourvedre adds depth, oomph and that lovely grind of white/black pepper to the blend. The fruit is all plums, currants, mulberries and so much more while the aromas and flavors that bubble up from underneath feature violets, bramble, anise and herbs. It goes on for simply ever! While it’s a hedonist’s dream wine right now, you might be better served hiding at least a few bottles away for the long haul and this wine is just incredible with a few years on it to temper its precociousness and raw power. What a wine!
 

Jeb Dunnuck: The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes is based on 45% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre, with the balance Syrah, all destemmed and raised in 55% new French oak. Gorgeous cassis, violet, graphite, fruitcake, and peppery herbs define this brilliant effort, and it's full-bodied, with a pure, seamless texture, wonderful tannins, and one heck of a great finish. This magical 2019 is going to benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age (it's brilliant even today) yet keep for 20 years or more. Châteauneuf du Pape lovers need to have this in their cellar! 99 points