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. Stunning nose of red fruits, garrigue, roasted herbs and hot, wet asphalt. Medium body with perfect acidity and balance. Tremendous structure and concentration. Raspberry, kirsch, herbes de Provence and blood on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Killer CdP that could not be showing better as it approaches twenty years of age. Rivals the 01 as my favorite vintage of Vieux Donjon. Best over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 95 points.
Vieux Donjon is an organically farmed, traditional style of Chateauneuf-du-Pape that ages well and sells for a fair price. The 2021 versions of Vieux Donjon can currently be bought at retail for around $70 and should have a place in your cellar.