Châteauneuf-du-Pape, arguably one of the most acclaimed appellations in France, is also one of its oldest. The name translates to “new home of the Pope,” which dates all the way back to the early 14th century, when the village became the summer residency of the papacy under Pope John XXII.
The area’s wines, which came to be known as “Pope’s Wines,” are equally steeped in history. Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s signature blends are made from 18 approved Rhône varietals, all grown in the region’s legendary rounded stones (galets). Here, whites are far less common than their darker hued brethren, but are just as complex and worthy of time and space in the wine fridge. The appellation’s well-known reds blends, which are dominated by Grenache with Syrah and Mourvèdre, have long been known to be rustic and highly tannic—requiring years of rest to come around. Though there remain plenty of bottles made in this traditional style, a new generation of producers have been diversifying the region’s offerings with cleaner, fresher styles, as well.
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“In the past 20-plus years, the wines have become much more refined,” says Wine Enthusiast Tasting Director and Rhône reviewer Anna-Christina Cabrales. “Winemakers are finding ways to create this beautiful balance. Truly these wines are so attractive to me right now.”
Many of these bottles are ready to drink with a bit of aeration. But some Châteauneuf-du-Papes do benefit from time in
This Article was originally published on Wine Enthusiast
