2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Trois Sources Vieille Julienne

The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Trois Source is flat out gorgeous and one of the 2015s readers should seek out. Black raspberries, black licorice, violets and loads of salty minerality all emerge from this seamless, ultra-fine beauty that has incredible purity and polish to its tannin. Full- bodied, concentrated and perfectly balanced, it's one of the most layered, interesting and enjoyable wines in the vintage.I've said it many times, but I'll say it again, there are few wines I'd rather have in my cellar, or on the table, than a Châteauneuf du Pape from Jean-Paul Daumen. The 2015s are beautiful wines and shine for their elegance and purity. They don't have the sheer wealth of material found in vintages such as 2001, 2005, 2010, or 2016, yet has incredible elegance and purity, as well as balance. Jean-Paul commented that he's never seen a vintage like 2016 and his wines are opulent and hedonistic, yet as with all the wines from this estate, has purity, elegance, and structure. They're some of the greatest wines in the vintage.

What will easily be one of the top wines in the vintage, the 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Les Trois Source is the finest example of this cuvée I've tasted. Just massively concentrated and voluptuous, with a huge mid-palate and sweet tannin, it has off the hook notes of black licorice, roasted herbs, black raspberries, blueberries and crushed flowers. While this is a seriously big wine, everything is perfectly balanced, it has no hard edges and a finish that won't quit. It too will have 20-25 years of longevity.

Brilliant ruby. Seductive raspberry, lavender pastille and Asian spice scents show outstanding clarity and minerally lift. Energetic flavors of red fruit liqueur and spicecake are given spine and definition by a jolt of juicy acidity. The red fruit note carries strongly through a clinging, sharply focused finish that's framed by silky, slow- building tannins. For a wine from a warm vintage, this one is showing impressive vivacity.

Red A blast of plum compote leads off here, followed quickly by raspberry and boysenberry pâte de fruit notes, along with ample licorice and fruitcake accents. The sleek finish is carried by a well-embedded graphite element, giving this some latent grip. Very solid and should age well. Best from 2019 through 2040.-J.M