The best Châteauneuf du Pape wines from the Rhône Valley at Ritschard Weine
Châteauneuf du Pape – a legendary wine
Châteauneuf du Pape is not just any wine, it is a legend. As one of the most famous red wines from the southern Rhône Valley in France, it is held in high esteem worldwide.
It stands for quality, history and a unique wine region that has been inspiring wine lovers for centuries. The name Châteauneuf-du-Pape is synonymous with the best red wines in France and owes its reputation to the history of the place of the same name.
The history of Châteauneuf du Pape
A prestigious wine-growing region with centuries-old tradition
The history of Châteauneuf du Pape is closely linked with the history of the papacy. In the 14th century, the popes moved their residence from Rome to Avignon, which had a significant impact on viticulture in the surrounding area. Châteauneuf du Pape means ‘new castle of the Pope’ and was the popes' summer residence. They promoted viticulture in the region and thus laid the foundation for the development of one of the most famous wine-growing areas in the world.
The development of the appellation
Châteauneuf du Pape appellation began in 1936, when it became one of the first wine-growing areas in France to receive the status of Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC). This designation of origin guarantees the quality and origin of the wines and is one of the keys to the wine region's success.
Today, the Châteauneuf du Pape wine-growing area, with around 3,000 hectares of vineyards, is part of the Côtes du Rhône appellation, which covers large parts of the southern Rhône Valley. In particular, the nearby Mediterranean Sea, warm summers and mild winters have had a positive influence on viticulture in this region and have provided ideal conditions for viticulture in the southern Rhône Valley for over 700 years.
The Rhône region
Northern Rhône: Home of the Côtes du Rhône
The expansive Rhône Valley stretches from south to north and is known for its climatic and geographical diversity. The northern part of the valley is home to the famous steep vineyards where both red and white grapes are grown for prestigious appellations such as Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph.
Southern Rhône: the home of Châteauneuf du Pape
In the southern part of the valley, the landscape alternates between gentle hills and impressive plateaus and terraces. The proximity to the Massif Central and the Alps contributes significantly to the varied topography.
The terroir of Châteauneuf du Pape
The special nature of the soils and the diversity of the terroirs
The Châteauneuf du Pape region is characterised by unique and diverse terroirs, which give the wines their distinctive character. The soils are composed of a mixture of pebbles, clay and sand, providing optimal growing conditions for the vines. The pebbles, known as ‘galets’, store the heat of the sun and release it to the vines at night, helping the grapes to ripen evenly. The sand ensures good drainage, while the clay stores moisture and supplies the vines with water during dry periods.
Within the Châteauneuf du Pape appellation, there are different terroirs that result in a wide variety of wines. The interaction of soils, climate and location allows winemakers to produce wines with different structures and flavours. Terroir is key to the identity of each Châteauneuf du Pape wine and explains why the wines are so complex and diverse.
The grape varieties of Châteauneuf du Pape
There are 13 grape varieties authorised for the production of Châteauneuf du Pape wines, with reds dominating. The Grenache grape is the most commonly grown variety, giving the wines their body, fruitiness and structure. Syrah adds spice and colour, while Mourvèdre provides tannins and ageing potential. These three grape varieties form the backbone of most Châteauneuf du Pape cuvées.
In addition to the main grape varieties, other varieties also play an important role in the winemaking of Châteauneuf du Pape. Cinsault brings softness and floral aromas, Counoise adds spice, and Terret Noir provides freshness. White wine grape varieties such as Grenache Blanc and Roussanne are also permitted, but the production of white wines is rather rare in Châteauneuf du Pape.
The production of Châteauneuf du Pape wines
Wine-making and the influence of the vintage
The production of Châteauneuf du Pape wines follows traditional methods that have been handed down from generation to generation. After the harvest, the grapes are destemmed and gently pressed. Fermentation takes place in large concrete tanks or stainless steel vats before the wines are aged in barriques or large oak barrels. The ageing in wood gives the wines additional complexity and contributes to the development of aromas such as vanilla, spices and dried fruits.
The vintage plays a crucial role in the quality of a Châteauneuf du Pape wine. Depending on the weather conditions during the year, the wines can develop different characters. A hot summer leads to ripe, concentrated wines, while a cooler vintage produces fresh and elegant wines. Winemakers take care to consider the vintage when making their wines and adjust the vinification accordingly.
Well-known Chateauneuf du Pape wineries
Château de Beaucastel
Château de Beaucastel is one of the most famous wineries in Châteauneuf du Pape and produces some of the most prestigious wines in the region. The winery is run by the Perrin family and is known for its high-quality cuvées, which are made from all 13 authorised grape varieties.
The wines of Château de Beaucastel are known for their impressive depth, complexity and outstanding aging potential. Year after year, the estate succeeds in perfectly reflecting the terroir of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation in its red wine Hommage à Jacques Perrin. This wine combines presence and power with remarkable elegance – a description that probably does it the greatest justice.
Château Rayas
Another famous winery in Châteauneuf du Pape is Château Rayas, known for its pure Grenache wines. Château Rayas wines are often lighter and more elegant than other Châteauneuf du Pape wines, but no less complex. The winery relies on traditional methods and minimal use of technology to produce the wines as naturally as possible.
Clos des Papes
Clos des Papes is another legendary estate in Châteauneuf du Pape. The wines from this estate are known for their structure, depth and ability to age well. Clos des Papes mainly uses Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre for its cuvées and is known worldwide for its exceptional wines.
Château La Nerthe: Châteauneuf du Pape par excellence
Château La Nerthe is a true flagship of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region and is one of the oldest estates in the appellation. For over five centuries, their histories have been intertwined, making Château La Nerthe a historic landmark in this region.
Famille Perrin: Châteauneuf du Pape pioneer
The Famille Perrin has made a name for itself worldwide based on its core values: a deep respect for nature, a passionate devotion to the traditional art of winemaking and the conviction that only an organic approach can bring out the full potential of the soil.
Together with the American actor couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, they have made rosé wine socially acceptable again in high society as a real alternative to champagne. Miraval Rosé is undoubtedly one of the best rosé wines in the world.
The diversity of Châteauneuf du Pape wines
Full-bodied reds, juicy whites, cuvées and single vineyards
The majority of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines are reds known for their body, complexity and impressive aging potential. These wines are often full-bodied and tannic, with aromas of dark fruits, spices and occasionally a slight earthy note. They go particularly well with hearty meat dishes, game and aged cheese.
In the first few years after bottling, Châteauneuf reds impress with their youthful, often luscious fruitiness. At the same time, they have the potential to age for many years, gaining in depth.
Although Châteauneuf-du-Pape is best known for its reds, there are also some notable whites from the region. Made from grape varieties such as Grenache Blanc, Roussanne and Clairette, these wines are characterised by their freshness, floral aromas and mineral structure.
While rare, Châteauneuf-du-Pape white wines are highly sought after. These elegant whites are a natural match for rich fish dishes and creamy sauces, such as a classic beurre blanc.
Some of the most outstanding Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines are blended from different grape varieties to maximise their complexity and depth. Other wines come from specific vineyards or terroirs, which give them a unique character. These wines are often available in limited quantities and are highly prized by wine lovers worldwide.
Châteauneuf du Pape and food
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in both its red and white forms, is a versatile wine that can be paired with a wide variety of foods. The reds from this renowned area in the southern Rhône Valley are known for their body, depth and complexity, while the whites display impressive structure and elegance. Due to their rich flavours and often robust structure, these wines offer numerous opportunities for successful food pairing.
A classic example of how to pair a Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine is with a hearty lamb dish. The red wine, often a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, harmonises beautifully with the intense flavour of lamb, especially when seasoned with herbs such as rosemary and thyme. The deep, spicy notes of the wine enhance the flavours of the dish and create a well-rounded taste experience.
Another excellent companion for Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine is a mature, strong cheese such as Époisses or Roquefort. The complexity and full body of the wine perfectly complement the intense aromas of these cheeses. The slightly salty note of Roquefort, in particular, is wonderfully contrasted by the spicy and fruity aromas of the wine, deepening the taste experience.
For the Châteauneuf-du-Pape white wine, which is rarer but no less impressive, a pairing with seafood is recommended. One example would be a pan-fried scallop in a light butter sauce. The white wine, which often consists of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc and Clairette, has enough body and a delicate acidity to harmonise with the richness of the shellfish and the butter sauce, without masking the delicate flavours of the seafood.
Another ideal companion for a Châteauneuf-du-Pape white is a creamy risotto, especially if it contains mushrooms or truffles. The earthiness of the mushrooms or truffles harmonises perfectly with the mineral and slightly nutty notes of the white wine. This combination highlights the elegance and complexity of the wine and makes the dish a truly special culinary experience.
Châteauneuf du Pape wines in the international wine world
Châteauneuf du Pape wines are recognised worldwide and have received numerous awards and ratings from notable wine critics. Robert Parker, one of the most well-known wine critics in the world, has given many Châteauneuf du Pape wines high scores. These ratings are an important indicator of a wine's quality and reputation and can help customers in their purchasing decisions.
Châteauneuf du Pape wines are not only a pleasure to drink, but also a piece of French wine history. Their diversity, quality and distinctive character make these products of the highest quality an indispensable part of any wine collection. Prices for Châteauneuf du Pape wines can vary greatly depending on the quality, vintage and winery.
High-quality wines from renowned vineyards such as Château de Beaucastel or Clos des Papes can cost several hundred euros per bottle, while wines from smaller vineyards are often available at more affordable prices. It is important to emphasise the quality characteristics of the wine to help customers understand the price.
Frequently asked questions about Châteauneuf du Pape wines
What is so special about Châteauneuf-du-Pape?
It is always aged dry and, depending on the vintage, has a relatively full body with low acidity. Nevertheless, high-quality white Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines often have a complex structure and can be stored for long periods. As they mature, they develop complex, volatile aromas that may be reminiscent of honey and floral notes, for example.
Which grape is Châteauneuf-du-Pape?
Four grape varieties are mainly used to make the red wines: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. They are complemented by other varieties such as Counoise, Muscardin, Terret Noir and Vaccarèse. The white wines are made from Clairette, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Grenache Blanc, Picardan and Picpoul.
Which vintage of Châteauneuf-du-Pape?
The outstanding vintages are considered to be 2017, 2015, 2010, 2007, 2001, 1999, 1998, 1995, 1990 and 1978.
What cheese to pair with Châteauneuf-du-Pape?
If you want to keep it as authentic as possible, we recommend some spicy French cheeses. Époisses, Camembert or Roquefort, mixed with a few strong Cheddars, make a fantastic, albeit intensely fragrant, cheese platter.
Where does the name Châteauneuf du Pape come from?
Châteauneuf-du-Pape means ‘the Pope's new castle’ in French. The name goes back to a 70-year period when the Pope moved his residence from Rome to Avignon. The Popes were passionate wine lovers and initially preferred the wines from Burgundy to the then less esteemed local wines.
How many grape varieties are there in Châteauneuf-du-Pape?
A surprising 13 different grape varieties are permitted for a red Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, most wines are a blend of the three main varieties, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre.