Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes AOC 2021

Wine Description for Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes AOC 2021 from Marcoux

Colour & Appearance

Darkly luminous cherry red with a bright rim – a visual promise of concentration and elegance in equal measure.

Nose

A sleeping giant, still moving between different worlds. Deep dark morello cherry, blackberry and elderberry meet a fascinating balsamic spice of cocoa and heavily roasted coffee. The Mediterranean soul reveals itself in juniper berry, black pepper and rosemary, whilst eucalyptus and ginger provide refreshing herbal spice. Dark floral notes of hibiscus lend the whole a silky elegance. Salty liquorice in dark chocolate – an association that perfectly captures the character of this still young wine.

Palate

What a texture! An extremely fine, fine-pored tannin lines the palate and creates a structure of impressive precision. The fruit submits to this elegant framework without losing its presence. The ethereal spice dominates, punctuated by balsamic elements – coffee, chocolate, spices. Mediterranean freshness and green contrasts maintain the tension. The salty liquorice returns and the considerable alcohol content of 15.5% is effortlessly integrated.

Finish

Very good length with persistent spicy presence and fine tannic grip.

Terroir & Origin

The cuvée comes from two exceptional parcels: Charbonnières on the northern slopes of the La Crau plateau with Grenache from 1900, as well as Les Esqueirons with vines from 1949 on the west-facing slopes of the fortress. A total of 3.3 hectares of ancient vines – 98% Grenache with minimal proportions of Mourvèdre.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Completely destemmed Grenache with cold maceration and temperature-controlled fermentation. Approximately four weeks of maceration, then maturation primarily in cement tanks as well as supplementary ageing in foudres – a method that preserves the purity of the fruit and the minerality.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Braised beef shoulder with glazed turnips, roasted lamb racks with bean cassoulet or surprisingly good with roasted beetroot with basil pesto.

Special Features

A wine at the beginning of its time, which has at least 5-10 years of ageing potential. The century-old vines give it a depth and complexity that will only fully unfold with patience.