2007 is the greatest vintage I have ever tasted of Domaine de la Janasse - Robert Parker – Wine Advocate

Always one of my favourite stops on my Rhone Valley trips, Domaine de la Janasse is run with incredible passion by Christophe Sabon, his sister Isabelle, and his father, who showed up nearly half naked as he was bringing in some white grapes on the torridly hot day I visited. What this family operation has achieved over the last decade is nothing short of remarkable considering the breadth of wines made, from their Vin de Pays, which are among the finest made in France, to their world-class Cotes du Rhônes and Châteauneuf du Papes. While this estate is at the top of its game, it is not content to rest on the status quo and continues to push the envelope. Their 2008s are among the finest wines of the vintage, and as the following tasting notes and scores indicate, their 2007s are out of this world…. 2007 is the greatest vintage I have ever tasted of Domaine de la Janasse – and that’s says something given the amazing wines produced here in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005, and 2006.

This Vin de Pays, a blend of Syrah and Merlot from the area named ‘Bussière’, really performs and has great power and strength. It perfectly expresses the maturity potential and the balance of the 2007 vintage. Merlot barrels élevage lend it even more strength.

The 2007 Vin de Pays Terre de Bussière is blend of 50-60% Merlot and the rest Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache. A great value, it exhibits a dense ruby/purple colour in addition to loads of fat, juicy red and black fruits, liquorice, chocolate, and spice, and a fleshy, succulent style. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. (Robert Parker – Wine Advocate June 2000 #185 –91 points)

Small in scale, but with a hearty feel to the tobacco, olive, braised fig and toast notes, followed by a juicy finish. Merlot and Syrah. Drink now. (Wine Spectator –86 points)