The 2015 vintage in Châteauneuf du Pape

The Southern Rhône Valley & Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The Rhône Valley is divided into two major regions: the Northern Rhône Valley and the Southern Rhône Valley. Each area has its particularities in terms of grape varieties, climate, terroir and wine style.

Located in southeastern France, the southern part of the Rhône Valley is more extensive than the northern part. The vines are cultivated on gentler slopes, benefiting from generous sunshine and higher temperatures.

Some vineyards in this region, among the most renowned, benefit from a distinct appellation, such as the AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This prestigious cru is produced in several communes, such as Courthézon, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Orange, Sorgues and Bédarrides.

The appellation takes its name from the time when the popes resided in Avignon in the 14th century. They greatly contributed to the reputation of this vineyard, particularly appreciating these powerful wines, formerly called "pontifical wines".

Today, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a wine recognized worldwide, primarily for its red version (94% of production). The white wines, although delicious, are less highlighted (6%). Châteauneuf-du-Pape red carries both the French AOC and European AOP labels.

Its exceptional terroir is located on the left bank of the Rhône, between Orange and Avignon. The Mediterranean climate allows the vine to benefit from mild winters and hot summers.

The vines are planted on terraces covered with pebbles and red clay. These pebbles, in addition to promoting drainage, store heat during the day to release it at night, thus promoting optimal ripening of the grapes. The vine is pruned in goblet style, which helps protect the clusters from violent winds and intense sun.

Beyond a unique terroir, the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation benefits from the diversity of its grape varieties.

Discover the greatest winemakers of the appellation: Beaucastel, Clos des Papes, Henri Bonneau, Pierre Usséglio, Emmanuel Reynaud and his illustrious Rayas…

The 2015 Vintage

The 2015 vintage in Châteauneuf-du-Pape is considered exceptional. The spring, marked by mild weather without excessive rain, followed by a hot and dry summer with cool nights, allowed ideal conditions for the vine. The yields, higher than previous years, delighted the winemakers.

The red wines of this vintage are characterized by great power from the attack. Their structure, dense and fleshy, is accompanied by well-present tannins and spicy and toasted notes. Extended cellaring will enrich these wines with flavors of undergrowth and truffle, perfect for accompanying flavorful dishes such as game.

The white wines, meanwhile, are delicate yet lively, with beautiful density. Their bouquet offers floral aromas of acacia, white-fleshed fruits such as apricot and peach, as well as citrus and honeyed notes. They also possess excellent aging potential, developing over time flavors of honey, spices and a touch of exoticism. Ideally, they will pair with fish in sauce for a perfect match.

Discover all our Châteauneuf 2015, as well as all our wines from the 2015 vintage on our website. 2015 being moreover a very good vintage in Bordeaux!