Bottle Notes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape

2006 Vieux Donjon Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Bottle Notes

Vieux Donjon was formed in 1966 by Marcel Michel. The current iteration came about in 1979 with the marriage of Lucien and Marie José Michel. Both Lucien and Marie José’s parents owned vineyards in the region, and those holdings were combined to form Vieux Donjon. The domaine covers fourteen hectares of vineyards, thirteen planted to red grapes and one planted to white.

Crimson in color. 14% ABV. Savory nose of red fruits, garrigue and roasted herbs. Medium body with ample acidity. Rustic and powerful. Cherries, kirsch, blood and cracked pepper on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long with robust tannins. I’ve seen conflicting reports on this wine but for me it is about what I expect from Vieux Donjon in an average vintage. Well made, clean and powerful but just lacking the fruit you would find in vintages like ’05 and ’07. Best over the next 2-4 years.

My rating: 92 points.

Vieux Donjon is an organically farmed, traditional style of Chateauneuf-du-Pape that ages well and sells for a fair price. The 2016 and 2017 versions of Vieux Donjon can currently be bought at retail for around $60 and should have a place in your cellar.

Tagged ,

Leave a Comment