Collection: Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the most famous appellation in the southern Rhône, named after the popes who moved the papacy to Avignon in the fourteenth century and planted vines here.

Thirteen grapes. Unusually, the appellation permits up to thirteen varieties in the blend — but Grenache dominates almost every wine, supported by Syrah and Mourvèdre. That is why Châteauneuf tastes warm, round and generous rather than firm.

The famous stones. The vineyards are covered in galets roulés, large rounded pebbles left by an ancient riverbed. They store heat during the day and release it at night, which is part of why the wines reach such high ripeness.

Who it suits. If you like Bordeaux but want something warmer, rounder and with more spice, this is the natural next step. It is also more forgiving young than most serious French red.

Decant an hour. Serve 16–18°C. Braised meat, lamb, herbs, anything with rosemary or thyme.

All Rhône