Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge AOC 2023

Wine Description for Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge AOC 2023 from Clos des Papes

Colour & Appearance

Medium, luminous ruby red – transparent and possessing a clarity that already hints at the elegance of this wine. Not an opaque powerhouse, but a wine that seeks to convince through finesse.

Nose

The nose is simply captivating. Initially, floral notes of violet, iris and lavender emerge, accompanied by a whisper of garrigue and cool menthol. Then dark fruits unfold – blackcurrant, cherries, ripe blackberries and a hint of strawberry jam, rounded off by a note of blood orange. Beneath lies a mineral depth of undergrowth, damp earth and stone. An aromatic profile of remarkable complexity and layering.

Palate

On the palate, this wine unfolds with a silky, almost meditative texture that immediately seduces. Paul-Vincent Avril achieves the feat of fully integrating the substantial 15.5% alcohol into the overall picture – no heat, no heaviness, only warmth and depth. The interplay of fleshiness and sensuality, dark fruit, spicy and ethereal notes along with a fine salinity creates a masterpiece of rare balance. Structure is present, but always in service of elegance.

Finish

Long, precise and carried by a vibrant freshness that surprises given the fullness. Spice, dark fruit and mineral notes linger long after the final sip.

Grape Variety & Vinification

A classic cuvée of approximately 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah plus small portions of other AOC-approved varieties. Yields were minimal at 25 hl/ha. Following a cool pre-fermentation, spontaneous fermentation took place in cement vats without pigeage over two weeks. Malolactic fermentation also in tank, followed by 12 months of ageing on fine lees in large wooden vats. An élevage that places terroir and fruit in the foreground.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Ideal with braised lamb shoulder with Provençal herbs, wild boar ragout or a classic Bœuf en Daube. Also an exceptional accompaniment to aged Comté or truffle dishes.

Special Features

Clos des Papes under Paul-Vincent Avril is regarded as one of the most reliable addresses in all of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The 2023 vintage, despite the challenging year with extreme heat, should once again rank among the absolute top wines of the appellation – a wine that already seduces now, but undoubtedly has the potential to develop over many years to come.