The Different Bottles of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
The Different Bottles of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
In Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the identity of the wines lies not only in their terroir and grape variety, but also in their emblematic bottle. Since the creation of the appellation in 1936, several types of bottle have been adopted to reflect thehistory and authenticity of the region’s wines. Some bear the papal coat of arms, recalling the historic influence of the Papacy, while others meet specific commercial needs.
Discover the three types of bottle used in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and the freedom producers have in choosing their packaging.
The Traditional Bottle: A Symbol of the Appellation
The traditional embossed bottle is the most emblematic of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Created in 1937, shortly after the official recognition of theChâteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, it is a strong symbol of the appellation.
🔹 Its features
✔ It features a papal tiara, placed above the keys of Saint Peter.
✔ The inscription “Châteauneuf-du-Pape contrôlé” is engraved on it, reinforcing its authenticity.
✔ It can be used by estates producing estate wines.
Many prestigious estates use this bottle for their red and white wines, including Chateau de Vaudieu, Pierre Usséglio, Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe and Domaine de la Janasse.
La Bouteille Mitrale: L’Héritage des Papes
The mitrale bottle is a reference to Châteauneuf-du-Pape’scenturies-old winegrowing history and the close links between the appellation and the Papacy of Avignon.
🔹 Its features
✔ It features an episcopal miter, a symbol of the vineyard’s spiritual power and religious heritage.
✔ It can be used freely by estates wishing to mark their attachment to papal traditions.
✔ It is not as common as the armorial bottle, but remains a strong symbol of the appellation’s prestige.
Estates such as Domaine Roger Sabon, Clos Saint Jean and Domaine Charvin use this bottle for some of their cuvées.
La Bouteille de Négociant : An essential distinction
Negociant bottles are intended for wines produced bypurchasing grapes or wines from winegrowers. Unlike wineries, which vinify their own production, a négociant blends and ages wines from different sources.
🔹 Its features
✔ It can bear theChâteauneuf-du-Pape crest or a mitral, just like other bottles.
✔ An N is affixed to the cork, making it possible to quickly identify a négoce wine.
✔ It is used by recognized négoce houses, such as Guigal, Chapoutier.
This distinction is important for wine lovers wishing to identify theexact origin of the product, between an estate wine and a vin de négoce.
Can any bottle be used?
Although the armorial bottle and mitral bottle are widely used in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, there is no obligation to use these models.
✔ A producer can choose a neutral bottle with no specific marking.
✔ Some estates use bottles with a customized design for their high-end cuvées.
✔ The format and thickness of the glass can vary according to the winemaker’s choices.
This choice gives producers total freedom to adapt their brand image, while guaranteeing theauthenticity and excellence of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. Chateau La Nerthe, Clos Des Papes and Chateau La Nerthe use their own bottles.
Packaging that reveals know-how
The choice of bottle is an essential element in the presentation of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. Whether it’s the armorial bottle, the mitrale or the négociant format, each type of bottle has its own history and identity.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines are not just about the container, they are also about the content, offering a unique experience with every tasting. 🍷✨