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. 13.5% ABV. Substantial sediment. Classic nose of red fruits, garrigue, roasted herbs and wet asphalt. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Fresh and vibrant. Dried cherries, kirsch, blood and tobacco on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Stunning CdP that is still shining at twenty years of age. This vintage of Vieux Donjon has to be in consideration for the best wine they have ever made. Drink over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 96 points.
Vieux Donjon is an organically farmed, traditional style of Chateauneuf-du-Pape that ages well and sells for a fair price. The 2017 and 2018 versions of Vieux Donjon can currently be bought at retail for around $60 and should have a place in your cellar.