Updated:2023/11/11
Châteauneuf-du-Pape terroir, grape varieties and bottles
As I mentioned in a previous blog, there are many areas in Châteauneuf-du-Pape where the ground is covered with red stones called Galets, and clay soil spreads underneath, resulting in wines with a concentrated flavor and rich minerality. Additionally, there are 18 grape varieties allowed under AOC. This is the largest number of AOC varieties stipulated by French wine law.
More than 95% of CNP (Châteauneuf-du-Pape) wines are red, and the top three grape varieties used are Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. In a vineyard near the ruins of the Pope’s castle, these varieties were introduced along with a signboard.
The other distinctive feature of CNP wine is its unique bottle. The most common one is the crown worn by the pope with crossed keys below. I felt the wines taste better by knowing that they were authentic and certified.
CNP winery
The first winery I visited was Clos du Calvaire. This is a family-run winery located about 2km southeast of the castle. Founded in 1923, this historic winery has been in existence for five generations, first run by the Mayard family and then by the Lemieux family, but it is also adapting to new waves, such as cultivating grapes with a focus on biodiversity and sustainability. The estate has 24 plots and produces a variety of wines from a variety of soils and grape varieties.
CLOS DU CALVAIRE was a supple wine made from Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault, with aromas of red fruits and rose petals, and a rich harmony of fine tannins and delicate fruit flavors.
On the other hand, LA CRAU DE MA MERE was a blend of Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah made in LA CRAU. Aromas of blackberry, spice, and ripe red fruit were accentuated by tannins, with a hint of chocolate on the finish.
The second winery was ROGER SABON, which is famous in Japan. This domaine was founded in 1952, but its history dates back to the 16th century. And by not using filtration, they believe that the wines become more complex and have body.
Red Chateauneuf du Pape 《Reserve》 was a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre grown on clay and lime soils. It had a scent similar to fresh green olives, but the taste was fuller and less astringent.
On the other hand, even though it was made from the same grape varieties grown in the same soil, 《Prestige》 was a powerful wine with aromas of ripe fruit and spices, and a strong taste with firm tannins.
Visiting a winery and tasting wines while listening to the history and winemaking beliefs is something special. If you have a chance, why not try it out?
