Domaine de la Janasse, Vieilles Vignes Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2001

97 points Jeb Dunnuck
"Almost always one of the top wines in any vintage, the 2001 Domaine de la Janasse Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is no exception. A blend of 85% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and the rest a blend of Mourvèdre and assorted varieties, from vines averaging 60-100+ years old, this cuvee is aged 75% in old foudres, and 25% in oak barrels, of which roughly have are new. While decidedly modern tasting a few years ago, the wine is starting to show its southern Rhone soul with touches of spice, licorice, and garrigue seeping into what was once a very fruit driven wine. Full bodied on the palate and simply superbly built, with loads of structure, serious concentration, and a massive finish, this awesome effort should continue to evolve positively for 3-5 years, and drink well for a decade or more after that."

97 points Wine Advocate
"The 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is still opaque and deeply colored, with killer blackcurrants, smoked meats, orange-tinged chocolate, roasted herbs and serious minerality all soaring from the glass. Just at the early stages of full maturity, this full-bodied, deep, rich and concentrated effort should be consumed over the coming 4-6 years."