Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the most famous wine of the southern Rhône Valley. 97% of it is red. Its name dates from the time of the French Popes. The ruins of their Summer Palace form the main architectural attraction of this rather sleepy little village. But if the village itself is lacking excitement, the wine more than compensates. At its best, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a rich, velvety, full-bodied red capable of ageing for 20 years or more.

Châteauneuf could be the ultimate antidote to New World style ‘single varietal wines' for under AOC laws, it can be a blend of up to 13 specified varieties. In practice, however, few Châteauneuf-du-Papes contain more than three or four and some very well known examples are made exclusively from Grenache.

Grenache is the backbone of the appellation followed closely by the sturdy Mourvèdre, the majestic, spicy Syrah, colourful, rustic Cinsault. Somewhat obscure varieties include Counoise and Picpoul Noir while the principal white varieties are Grenache Blanc and Roussanne.

Much is made of the region's galets – large ‘pudding stones' found in some vineyards. By absorbing heat during the day, they allow the grape ripening process to continue after sunset. In reality, galets exist in relatively few vineyards and soils throughout the appellation vary widely.

White Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a rarity and its best, fresh, complex, creamy, full-bodied and spicy. It's an excellent choice of wine with the rich white meat or seafood dishes of Provence.