Overview
Up to 18 grape varieties are permitted. The famous galets roulés (large smooth stones) radiate heat at night, producing wines of extraordinary richness and southern warmth. The first ever AOC wine law was written here in 1936.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Medium ruby
- Nose
- Dark cherry, Black plum, Fig, Lavender and Thyme.
- Palate
- Southern warmth and garrigue — the most hedonistic of France. Generally very full-bodied, soft acidity, medium tannins, dry, with a long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Very Full5/5
Tannins Medium3/5
Acidity Soft2/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol Very High5/5
Grapes
GrenacheSyrahMourvèdreCinsaultCounoise
Aromas And Notes
Dark cherryBlack plumFigGarrigueLavenderThymeLeatherSpiceTruffleGameCoffeeDark chocolate
Terroir
Mediterranean — 3,000 hours of sunshine, strong Mistral wind.
Galets roulés (round stones)SandClay-limestone
Food Pairings
Daube de boeufLamb with herbes de ProvenceWild boarGrilled lamb chops
Notable Producers
- Château Rayas, founded 1880 - Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réservé
- Château Beaucastel, founded 1687 - Hommage à Jacques Perrin