Alain Jaume of Grand Veneur needs no intro for diehard Rhône fans.

Their La Grangette des Papes negoce project from Châteauneuf-du-Pape is however somewhat under the radar though, yet with the same 100-point winemaking, and painstaking attention to detail in the vineyards, the results are tremendous…

In sum, good luck finding another Châteauneuf this good under $40!

Wine Advocate raves that “with impressive holdings in the northern sector of Châteauneuf-du-Pape as well as an ever expanding, high quality negociant business, brothers Christophe and Sebastian Jaume have taken this estate, established in 1826, to new heights.”

While Jeb Dunnuck endorses “one of the reference point producers for relatively modern styled Châteauneuf-du-Papes. In addition to their top tier efforts, the portfolio is loaded with smoking values at just about every price point… the quality here is superb across the range.”

Which matches what’s in our glasses precisely…

A brilliant crimson sits vibrant with a bright deeper blood orange glow to the edge. Cherry liqueur all day on the persistent perfume, with fresh red and black cherries on top with dusty earth in the background. The simply irresistible mouthfeel offers up red berries galore, minerals, and spice, along with grilled meat nuances that meld well with all. Decidedly full-bodied on the long finish, perplexingly plush, fat yet fresh in the mouth, fine tannins lingering on and on. Wild game or all kinds of roasted poultry would pair well with this beauty but think a citrus glaze and tons of fresh herbs to enhance the experience.

Jeb further elaborates that “The style here, if looked at as a whole, is more traditional than not, with plenty of tank and stainless steel, yet their Châteauneuf-du-Papes are distinctly modern and spent plenty of time in small barrels. However, they never lose their Southern Rhône typicity, have gorgeous purity and also possess balanced, age-worthy profiles. These are some of the most exciting wines coming out of the region and they should not be missed!”

Truly so, and at this price??!! Here today, gone tomorrow!

Don’t hesitate and don’t make us say we told you so!

91+ Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

“The Jaume family’s 2018 Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Grangette des Papes shows excellent concentration and a bit more tannic structure than many examples of Châteauneuf-du-Pape from this vintage. Cherries lead the way on the nose, joined by hints of resinous herbs and dark chocolate, while the finish boasts plenty of length and surprisingly chewy tannins. Drink 2023-2030.”