91 Pts Robert Parker - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The 2011 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Terre d'Argile is composed of equal parts Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and Carignan grown in clay soils just outside Chateauneuf du Pape. This cuvee, which hit a remarkable 16% natural alcohol in 2011, is a muscular, full-throttle red that could easily be mistaken for a Chateauneuf du Pape. Meaty with lots of kirsch, earth, forest floor and black fruit characteristics, it should drink well for 5-6 years."

"Domaine de la Janasse is one of the great winemaking estates of not only France, but of the world. It is situated adjacent to the Auto Route de Soleil opposite Chateauneuf du Pape, at the entrance to the village of Courthezon. Janasse is managed by Christophe Sabon and his sister, Isabelle. Although their father is technically retired, he is still a visible as well as spiritual presence at this superb estate. Janasse owns over 40 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape as well as significant holdings in the Cotes du Rhone appellations. The consistency at this estate since the mid-1990s has been remarkable. Year in and year out, the wines, both reds and whites, are among the finest one will find ... anywhere! 2011 is consistently a top vintage at Janasse, even though it is by no means a great vintage in the southern Rhone, and their prodigious 2010s compete with their remarkable array of 2007s and 2009s. First, the 2011s, a challenging year that depended on vignerons making strict selections, not only in the vineyard, but also on the triage tables. Sabon has certainly done that. Janasse's white Chateauneuf du Papes are fascinating as Sabon is one of the last producers to still do a 100% malolactic fermentation and no filtration. 2010 rivals 2007 as the two greatest vintages I have ever tasted at Domaine de la Janasse (and I've been tasting their wines for over two decades)." (10/12)

91 Pts Wine Spectator

"Delivers a chunky feel, with plum skin and blackberry paste flavors bouncing off singed anise and warm linzer torte notes. The briary finish delivers solid length and depth for the vintage. Drink now through 2017. 1,000 cases imported. -JM" (10/13)

91 Pts Jeb Dunnuck - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"More serious and layered, the 2011 Cotes du Rhone Villages Terre d'Argile is a blend of equal parts Grenache, Carignan, Mourvedre, Syrah and Grenache, with the Grenache aged in foudre and everything else in 1-to-5-year-old barrels. Rock solid, with notes of spice-laced black and red fruits, licorice and background meatiness, this full-bodied beauty has a rich, textured mouthfeel, good freshness and loads of depth. Drink it over the coming 4-5 years. Drink now-2018."

"Located in the town of Courthezon, and covering 38 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape and 100 acres in Cotes du Rhone, Domaine de la Janasse is run by the brother/sister pair, Christophe and Isabelle Sabon. While 2011 was a difficult vintage throughout the region, you wouldn't know it by tasting here. These wines are superb across the board and should not be missed." (10/13)