Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge AOC 2022

Wine Description for Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge AOC 2022 from Clos des Papes

Colour & Appearance

Transparent, luminous garnet red – a colour that displays remarkable clarity despite its concentration.

Nose

Captivating and multi-layered: garrigue in all its glory with sage, thyme and lavender, plus liquorice and a hint of leather. The fruit presents itself in dark tones – cherries, blackberries, blueberries – underpinned by undergrowth. The balance between ripeness and freshness is remarkable.

Palate

Here the mastery of Clos des Papes reveals itself: despite 15.5% alcohol, not a trace of heat, but perfectly integrated warmth. Ripe, concentrated fruit meets minerality and vibrant freshness. The wine unfolds layers of earthiness, forest floor and peat, nuances of kirsch and abundant liquorice. The tannins are present, but round and silky. At its core a dense spice spectrum, enveloped by dark, ripe fruit – energy and depth in every sip.

Finish

Long, spicy and of elegant persistence. The mineral freshness carries the fruit far, liquorice and garrigue herbs linger on.

Terroir & Origin

From the legendary parcels of Clos des Papes in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhône. A terroir that unites power and finesse.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Cuvée of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (with elevated Mourvèdre content) plus small portions of other AOC-approved varieties. Extreme yield of just 16 hl/ha – less than half the already low AOC limit. Following hail damage in 2022 with 40% loss. Destemmed grapes, cold pre-fermentation, spontaneous fermentation in cement vats without pigeage, then 12 months maturation in large wooden vats on fine lees.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Lamb rack with herb crust, game stew, beef braised in red wine, cassoulet, Daube Provençale or aged Comté.

Special Characteristics

A Châteauneuf-du-Pape at the highest level, already seductive now, but undoubtedly destined to age gracefully for decades to come. Elegance rather than opulence – the hallmark of a great vintage despite adverse conditions.