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Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC: A Wine of History and Prestige

Discover Châteauneuf-du-Pape, one of France’s oldest Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), located in the heart of the southern Rhône Valley. This characterful red or white wine captivates with its richness, structure, and red fruit aromas, enhanced by the iconic rolled pebbles that blanket the region’s soils. With 13 authorized grape varieties, it offers unique complexity and remarkable ageing potential.

A wine born under the influence of the Avignon popes

In the 14th century, Pope John XXII had a castle built on the left bank of the Rhône, in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This marked the beginning of the region’s viticultural rise. This village, shaped by the presence of the Avignon popes, gave birth to exceptional wines with a bold style and strong identity. The very name “Châteauneuf-du-Pape” — meaning “the Pope’s new castle” — reflects this prestigious legacy.

A pioneering appellation in France

Officially recognized in 1936, Châteauneuf-du-Pape was the first appellation d’origine contrôlée to codify its cultivation practices, authorized grape varieties, and winemaking methods. The vineyard, bathed in Mediterranean sun and swept by the mistral wind, rests on varied soils—red clay, limestone, sand, and the iconic rolled pebbles—that all contribute to the unique character of each wine.

A wide range of grape varieties and styles

The AOC authorizes up to 13 grape varieties, including Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Clairette. This diversity makes it possible to produce powerful, full-bodied and aromatic red Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines, as well as saline, floral and elegant white Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Estates such as Château de Beaucastel, Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe and Jean-Louis Chave epitomize the appellation’s excellence.

An iconic bottle

In 1937, producers created a unique bottle embossed with a crest representing the papal coat of arms to combat counterfeiting. Today, this bottle symbolizes the authenticity and nobility of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine.

a rare sensory experience

The finest Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines age beautifully. Over time, the reds develop notes of truffle, leather, garrigue, and ripe fruits, while the whites evolve toward aromas of honey, almond, and beeswax. These wines are ideal for pairing with refined cuisine or for cellaring to enjoy their full maturity.

A Living Heritage

Between viticultural tradition, diversity of grape varieties, strict cultivation methods, and iconic terroirs, Châteauneuf-du-Pape stands out as a legendary wine. It embodies the papal legacy, the richness of the Rhône Valley terroir, and the very best of French winemaking excellence.

Emblematic estates of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a prestigious appellation in the southern Rhône Valley, is home to historic estates and iconic producers. These winemakers shape the AOC’s reputation for excellence, blending tradition, terroir, and viticultural mastery. Here is a selection of the most emblematic names.

Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe – La Crau as Heritage

Founded in 1891, this family-run estate on the La Crau plateau is a flagship of the appellation. Its red wines are powerful, focused, and built for aging, while the whites offer rare saline finesse. The terroir of rolled pebbles imparts remarkable minerality to the cuvées.

Château de Beaucastel – The 13 Grapes in Majesty

A pioneer of biodynamics in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Château de Beaucastel is renowned for its red cuvée that blends all 13 authorized grape varieties. Its wines are dense, structured, and remarkably age-worthy, reflecting a forward-thinking vision that remains true to the AOC’s heritage.

Clos des Papes – Elegance Through Simplicity

Run by the Avril family, Clos des Papes embodies a pure and noble style. The minimalist vinification (no new oak) allows a crystal-clear expression of the terroir. Regularly praised by critics, the estate ranks among the most awarded in the region.

Le Vieux Donjon – A Single Cuvée, a Strong Signature

This family estate relies on authenticity: a single red cuvée produced each year, focused on Grenache and vinified using traditional methods. The result? A straight, consistent wine true to the Châteauneuf spirit.

Domaine de la Janasse – The Art of Blending

Renowned for the richness and complexity of its wines, Domaine de la Janasse cultivates parcels with diverse profiles. This diversity allows for precise blends, resulting in harmonious, powerful, and perfectly balanced cuvées.

Domaine Saint-Préfert – The Rising Star

A relatively recent estate, Saint-Préfert quickly established itself with expressive and well-crafted Châteauneufs. Through meticulous winemaking and a sharp sense of blending, it has become a favorite among discerning wine lovers.

Château Rayas – The Discreet Legend

Château Rayas holds a unique place in the world of fine wine. With a radically different approach—whole-cluster fermentation, aging in old foudres, no new oak—its pure, ethereal, and profoundly deep wines are the object of a near-mystical pursuit by collectors worldwide.