The Jaume family’s winemaking heritage dates back to 1826, when Mathieu Jaume first planted vines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Generation after generation, the family has continued to cultivate and refine its craft, culminating in the creation of Domaine Grand Veneur by Alain and Odile Jaume in 1979. Today, the estate is recognised as one of the Rhône Valley’s leading producers, combining traditional expertise with organic viticulture to produce wines of exceptional concentration, elegance and ageing potential.

The Vieilles Vignes cuvée is sourced from the estate’s oldest vineyard parcels in the northern sector of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Organically farmed, these mature vines have developed deep root systems that draw complexity and character from the terroir while naturally limiting yields. The blend is composed of 50% Grenache Noir, 40% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah. Grapes are harvested by hand, fully destemmed and fermented with a long 25-day maceration, including regular punch-downs for gentle extraction. The wine is then aged for 16 months, with 40% matured in concrete vats and 60% in new and one-year-old French oak barrels from Tronçais, adding depth and structure while preserving freshness.

Almost opaque in colour, this powerful Châteauneuf-du-Pape offers intense aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry and ripe plum layered with spice, dried herbs, roasted coffee and subtle vanilla. The palate is full-bodied, rich and velvety, balancing concentrated dark fruit with fine tannins, remarkable freshness and a distinctive saline minerality. Complex and harmonious, it finishes with exceptional length and finesse.

A superb partner for slow-roasted lamb, beef rib, venison, game dishes and richly flavoured casseroles. It also pairs beautifully with mature hard cheeses and truffle-based dishes. While enjoyable now with decanting, its structure and concentration allow for outstanding cellaring over the next two to three decades.

Highly acclaimed by critics, the 2017 vintage received 97+ points from Jeb Dunnuck and 96 points from Robert Parker. Wine Advocate praised its intense aromas of purple raspberry, black cherry and plum, describing it as “full-bodied, lush and creamy” with remarkable balance and an exceptionally long finish.