The 2009 Domaine de la Janasse Cuvee Chaupin was the winning bottle in the August Installment of Pick My Next Bottle. The wine was decanted for one hour and served with burgers.
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.
Chaupin is 100% Grenache from century old vines.
Ruby red in color. 15.5% ABV. Sublime nose of red and black fruits, roasted herbs, garrigue and blood. Full bodied with mouth watering acidity. Rich and concentrated with notable balance. Black raspberry, kirsch liqueur and Herbes de Provence. Exceptional length on the finish. Clearly modern in style but not at all over the top. Everything works in harmony here and the wine could not be more appealing. Best over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 94 points.
Current vintages of Janasse Chaupin will set you back about $85.