Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Tradition 2017 750ml

The entry-level Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge from Domaine de la Janasse is sourced from a wide variety of terroirs, totaling about 10 hectares, located in the northern part of the appellation and supplemented with a small portion of fruit from Le Crau. About 2/3 Grenache in most vintages, the rest of the blend includes varying amounts of Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault. Harvested by hand, the fruit is mostly destemmed (about 20% whole clusters are retained) with fermentation in vat. Macerations average between 21-28 days with daily, manual pigeage. The wine is then aged in foudre (80%) and French oak barrels (20%) of which a third are new.

Jeb Dunnuck writes:  The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape from this team checks in as 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre and the rest Cinsault and other permitted varieties brought up in foudre and barrels. A sexy nose of kirsch liqueur, blackberries, flowery incense, and ground pepper gives way to a medium to full-bodied, layered, elegant wine that has plenty of tannins, terrific balance, and a great finish.  Drinking 2019 - 2034.  - Jeb Dunnuck 93+

Josh Raynolds writes:  Deep ruby. Displays raspberry, cherry and blueberry aromas that are complemented by suggestions of lavender, allspice and cracked pepper. Shows very good depth as well as energy to its appealingly sweet red and blue fruit and candied licorice flavors, which slowly spread out and become spicier through the back half. Supple tannins frame a long, spice- and floral-accented finish that echoes the licorice note.  Drinking 2022 - 2030.  - Vinous 92

James Suckling writes:  The Janasse signature of deeply fleshy and supple dark berries is strong here, as is the fragrant perfume and delicate, spicy edge. The palate is very succulent and attractively rich, ripe and juicy. Vibrant and silky, offering a juicy, lithe and attractive feel and a focused, fresh finish. Drink or hold.  - James Suckling 92 

Joe Czerwinski writes:  A blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre and 5% other varieties, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape is full-bodied, supple and easy to drink, loaded with concentrated black raspberries spiced with hints of clove, allspice and clove. It's a ripe, plush wine to enjoy in its first decade.  Drinking 2019 -2027.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 91

James Molesworth writes:  Alluring tobacco, alder and grilled herb notes lead the way, followed by silky mulled cherry and red currant fruit flavors. A sandalwood echo runs through the finish. A charming old-school version that is approachable now. Drink now through 2029.  - Wine Spectator 92

94 Wine Enthusiast
Fresh, mouthwatering blueberry and blackberry flavors explode in this full-throttle blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. It's an intensely primary, fruit-forward sip, but hints of bitter walnut skin and clove lend complexity to the midpalate. The finish is long and piercing, finishing on a grip of fine-grained, persistent tannins.