Rapidly becoming my favorite Rhone producer... this stuff is soooo good!

Clos St. Antonin Chateauneuf du Pape 2018
(label for illustration)

Sale $52.99 - I saw someone in NC advertising for $59.99 - BY THE CASE! 

94 pts Wine Spectator / 93 pts Jeb Dunnuck / 93 pts Wine Advocate / 93 Decanter 

One of only two Chateauneuf to merit 94 pts WS and retail under $60!

Even the most casual drinker of Rhone wines has undoubtedly heard of Domaine de la Janasse. Many an argument could be made that they are the finest producer in Chateauneuf, and without question stand in the top 10. The estate has been run for the past decade or so by siblings Christophe and Isabelle Sabon, under their father Aime's watchful eye. As Aime prepares for Christophe's succession, he has partnered with Isabelle to form a new winery that she will inherit. Of course, being a tight-knit family, she has access to the Janasse vineyards, and her brother's winemaking expertise. 

Simply, this is the most exciting new project in Chateauneuf I have seen in my 20 years in this business.

"This is really alive, with a burst of kirsch, plum and blackberry notes leading off, followed by waves of black tea, melted black licorice and warm fruitcake. Long and lush through the finish, but maintains detail and energy. " WS

"Coming from cooler, sandy soils and all Grenache, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape reveals a medium ruby/purple hue to go with perfumed notes of kirsch liqueur, wild strawberries, flowery incense, and orange blossom. Playing in the medium to full-bodied end of the spectrum, it has a seamless texture, ripe, silky tannins, and a great finish. It’s not a blockbuster, but it just glides over the palate with no sensation of weight or heaviness and has beautiful length on the finish. Enjoy this elegant, nuanced 2018 Châteauneuf du Pape any time over the coming decade." JD

"Black cherries, red raspberries and hints of plum combine on the nose with hints of garrigue and licorice, while the full-bodied palate is silky and elegant despite being labeled at 15.5% alcohol. There's ample length and no perceptible heat on the finish, but I'd still opt to enjoy it over its first 6-8 years or so." WA

"A very stylish Châteauneuf - pure, almost aerial black cherry fruit with raspberry and raspberry leaf. A smooth and silky style with a lovely finesse to the tannins, the acidity is a little tart but it works. All in good harmony. I would drink young, but should age into the medium term. " Decanter

Or reply. The wine will be available Friday afternoon in both stores.