2004 Le Vieux Donjon Chateauneuf-du-Pape

2004 Le Vieux Donjon Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Famous for its full-bodied, seductive and spicy reds with flavor and aroma characteristics reminiscent of black cherry, baked raspberry, garrigue, olive tapenade, lavender and baking spice, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the leading sub-appellation of the southern Rhône River Valley. Large pebbles resembling river rocks, called “galets” in French, dominate most of the terrain. The stones hold heat and reflect it back up to the low-lying gobelet-trained vines. Though the galets are typical, they are not prominent in every vineyard. Chateau Rayas is the most obvious deviation with very sandy soil.

Critical Acclaim

94 Wine Spectator

Tight on the nose, but with a great beam of red and black fruits, as well as hoisin sauce, olive, cocoa, tar and raspberry ganache. Long, lush finish pumps out darker and darker fruit. Has the racy profile of the vintage, but its range sets it apart. Best from 2007 through 2026.

92 Vinous

Dark red. Intense strawberry and raspberry aromas, with complicating suggestions of tapenade and smoked meat. Full and deep, with lush bitter cherry and blackcurrant flavors complicated by a hint of game. Finishes on a sweet cherry note, with suave tannins and very good length.

90 Jeb Dunnuck

Drank over two day and while not at the level of the previous bottle, the 2004 Le Vieux Donjon Châteauneuf-du-Pape is still outstanding with plenty of kirsch, herbs de provence, licorice, underbrush and potpourri aromas on the nose. Medium bodied with pure fruit, this is certainly lacking some concentration but comes through with beautiful balance, a smooth texture and a medium length finish with silky tannins.

90 Wine Advocate

The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape is similar in style to their 1999 but with more power. A cedary, sweet bouquet of herbes de Provence, roasted meats, kirsch liqueur, resiny notes, and perhaps incense as well, jumps from the glass of this medium to full-bodied, fragrant, savory style of wine. Its tannins are present and persistent but sweet and well-integrated. The wine reveals outstanding concentration, purity, and plenty of Provencal typicity. It should drink well for 10-15 years.