Coming after the 2005, the 2006 is relatively closed on the nose, with touches of blackberry leaf, wild hedgerow and black olive but after a few swirls some ripe raisin and fig begins to emerge with a sense of minerality. This minerality is coming through on the palate, which has real backbone and the same level of freshness as the 2005. Perhaps slightly more grippy, hint of dark chocolate, quite earthy towards the finish. Drink 2010-2025.

Very rich and densely packed, with a huge core of raspberry ganache, macerated plum and hoisin sauce notes wrapped by dark licorice, Turkish coffee and charred applewood. The long finish ripples with tannins, but this is velvety and well-integrated. Needs some time. Rather serious juice. Best from 2011 through 2033. 2,000 cases made. –JM

Certainly one of the top wines of the vintage, the 2006 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Châteauneuf-du-Pape is extremely pure and precise with black cherry, cassis, licorice and graphite aromas leading into a structured, edgy palate. Silky, fresh and balanced, the purity here is certainly notable and this should age beautifully over the next 20 years.

A vintage that’s always shown well, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape is a classic, textbook example of this cuvee. Full-bodied, rich, structured and with high, but sweet, tannin, it has fantastic black cherry, currants, licorice, and roasted herb-like qualities all soaring from the glass. While it’s approachable now, it needs another handful of years in the cellar. - Jeb Dunnuck

Still young, this delicious wine offers layers of sweet, ripe, peppery, black raspberries, cherries, jam and garrigue. Rich, round and flavorful, this is a good time to be popping a cork on this expressive wine. 93 Points Read more at:https://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/wine-tasting-note/?vintage=2006&wine=Domaine%20de%20la%20Vieille%20Julienne%20Chateauneuf-du-Pape