The 2017 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Chateauneuf du Pape les Trois Sources is a proprietary red blend originating from the prestigious Chateauneuf du Pape appellation in the Southern Rhone region of France. This wine is a product of Domaine de la Vieille Julienne and is sealed with a traditional cork closure. The blend is composed of 60% Grenache, 10% Cinsault, 5% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre, and small quantities of other allowable grape varieties, contributing to its complex profile.
The wine has garnered impressive reviews from several critics, highlighting its quality and potential for aging. Decanter awarded it a score of 93, noting that the sandy soils have produced a "bright, open and dynamic wine with aromas of damson, plum, and a touch of liquorice." The review mentions the wine's medium body, powerful acidity, and vivid, clean character, though it also points out that the alcohol is a bit raised.
Jeff Leve, writing for TheWineCellarInsider.com, gave this wine a stellar score of 96. He describes the wine as having a "spicy floral" nose with ripe red fruits, pepper, jam, licorice, and black raspberries. On the palate, Leve notes its soft texture, freshness, and a juicy, peppery kirsch end note. He praises the wine's concentration of flavor, fruit, and freshness from start to finish.
Jeb Dunnuck provided the highest score among the reviewers, a 97, calling the 2017 Les Trois Sources "spectacular." He highlights its opulent and fruit-loaded profile, with "loads of black fruits, black licorice, ground herbs, violets," and "obvious loamy soil and mineral-like aromas and flavors." Dunnuck describes it as full-bodied, expansive, and multi-dimensional, capturing the essence of its terroir.
Wine Spectator also rated this wine highly with a score of 96. The review describes it as "quietly packed with cassis, fresh plum, and raspberry reduction notes," supported by a chalky minerality that provides structure. The finishing kick of fruit is impressive and suggests excellent aging potential, with a recommended drinking window from 2024 through 2038.
In summary, the 2017 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Chateauneuf du Pape les Trois Sources is a highly regarded red wine known for its dynamic character, complex flavors, and excellent aging potential. The wine's high scores from reviewers like Jeb Dunnuck and Jeff Leve underscore its quality and the skill of winemaker Jean-Paul Daumen. With only 1,200 cases produced and 300 cases imported, this wine is both a notable and somewhat exclusive offering from the Southern Rhone.