The 2006 Janasse Chaupin was the winning bottle in the November installment of Pick My Next Bottle. The wine was decanted for two hours.
Domaine de la Janasse is located in Courthezon, in the Southern Rhone Valley, and it is one of the region’s brightest stars. The Sabon family has been growing grapes in the valley for several generations, but it wasn’t until 1973 that Aime Sabon began making wine under the name Domaine de la Janasse. The wines became truly noteworthy in the 1990s, after Aime’s son Christophe graduated from oenology college in Beaune and returned to the domaine bringing new ideas about wine production and viticulture. Janasse owns 136 acres of vineyards divided into 15 parcels, and also makes Cotes du Rhone and white wines, all of which are praised by reviewers.
Purple in color. 15.5% ABV. Gorgeous nose of cassis liqueur, molten licorice and red fruits. Incredibly silky and plush on the palate. Full bodied with more than enough acidity to keep everything in balance. Flavors of kirsch, garrigue, cocoa and minerals. Immensely concentrated with a breathtaking finish. Drink over the next 5-7 years.
My rating: 95 points.
Current vintages of Janasse Chaupin will set you back about $85. Be on the lookout for vintages like ’04 and ’06 which can be had for $50-$60 on WineBid. Both represent great value in today’s market.
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