Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Réservé” Rouge 2022 (750ml)

This is the kind of Châteauneuf-du-Pape that stops you in your tracks from the first pour. Ripe blackberry, black cherry and plum surge from the glass alongside crushed violets, raspberry compote and hints of blood orange, while layers of liquorice, graphite, dried herbs and sweet spice add remarkable depth and complexity.

Widely regarded as one of the finest wines of the 2022 vintage, this Réserve is built from 90% Grenache with Syrah, Counoise and Cinsault rounding out the blend. The Grenache brings richness, generosity and soaring fruit purity, while the supporting varieties contribute structure, savoury detail and aromatic lift. There’s immense concentration here, yet the wine remains impressively composed, with freshness carrying the palate and keeping every layer in balance.

The palate is full, powerful and deeply structured, unfolding with dense dark fruit, cracked pepper, warm spice and a distinctive savoury edge. Firm but beautifully integrated tannins provide shape and longevity, giving the wine the architecture to age gracefully for many years to come. The finish is long and commanding, lingering with notes of black fruits, licorice, dried herbs and warming spice.

With only 1,700 bottles produced, this is an exceptionally limited release and one of the most sought-after wines from the vintage. To see any allocation arrive in New Zealand is rare in itself, making this a genuine opportunity for collectors and Rhône lovers to secure a benchmark Châteauneuf-du-Pape of remarkable pedigree and ageing potential.