Tasting Notes
Vinous 91
Full red. Assertively perfumed, offering raspberry and strawberry preserve scents and intense floral character. Then fresh and energetic in the mouth, with bright red and dark berry and floral pastille flavors, fine-grained tannins and good mineral spine. A lingering white pepper note adds complexity to a long, spicy finish. This is quite successful for the vintage.
Wine Advocate 89
The 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape is certainly a strong effort for the vintage. Classic notes of kirsch, plum, spice box, cedar, and garrigue are accompanied by deep fruit, an attractive dark ruby/plum color, and surprising body as well as depth for a 2008. It should drink well young, and evolve for up to a decade. (Not yet released) Vieux Donjon’s traditional winemaking is more and more in the hands of owner Lucien Michel’s talented daughter, Claire, although both parents (Lucien and his wife Marie Jose) are still very involved. Importer: Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173
Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019
