2024 Domaine de la Janasse Pays de la Principauté d'Orange Viognier

The vines for the Principauté d'Orange Viognier are planted in soils of gravel, sand, and large boulders. The grapes are harvested entirely by hand and subject to rigorous selection, both during harvest and on the sorting tables. A pneumatic pressing is followed by temperature-controlled fermentation. After fermentation, the wine is aged "sur lie" for six months in oak barrels (25% new wood). All wines are traditionally crafted and are distinguished by a combination of power and finesse. The Pays de la Principauté d'Orange IGP Viognier is a 100% Viognier. A beautiful straw yellow in the glass, the nose displays distinct Viognier notes of spring flowers, yellow fruit, and freshness. On the palate, the wine is creamy, full-bodied, and fruity, with a pleasant freshness on the finish.

Domaine de la Janasse dates back to 1967 when it was founded by Aimé Sabon with 15 hectares of vineyards. The total area now comprises 55 hectares and is currently run by his son Christophe and his sister Isabelle. The vineyards are situated on challenging soils of gravel, sand, and large boulders. The vines are 40 to 80 years old. Yields are usually less than 30 hl/ha due to strict pruning and a rigorous vendange verte (green season).

Janasse's big breakthrough came in 2007, when their Châteauneuf du Pape "Veilles Vignes" scored 100 Parker points! Year after year, all their wines have been rated excellent. The quality of this estate is so high that even their "regular" Cotes-du-Rhone is already highly regarded worldwide! This is truly a top-notch estate!