Domaine Charvin Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020

Domaine Charvin is a small, family-owned winery in the north of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, run by Laurent Charvin. The winery has vineyards covering 8 hectares in Chateauneuf-du-Pape and 13 hectares in Cotes du Rhone, with an average vine age of over 50 years and some being nearly 80 years old. The vineyard site is cooler than usual for Chateauneuf, as the vines are mainly grown on sandy north-facing slopes. The winery is certified organic and produces red wines primarily from Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grape varieties, which are aged in large oak casks for up to 18 months. The wines are known for their balance, complexity, and elegance, and have received high praise from wine critics and enthusiasts. Domaine Charvin is a highly respected winery in the region due to their dedication to traditional winemaking techniques and their commitment to the environment.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a sub-appellation of the southern Rhône River Valley known for its full-bodied, spicy red wines with aromas of black cherry, baked raspberry, garrigue, olive tapenade, lavender, and baking spice. The terrain is dominated by large pebbles called "galets," which hold heat and reflect it back to the vines. Grenache is the primary grape variety used in red blends, followed by Mourvedre and Syrah, with other varieties occasionally used. White wines account for only 6-7% of the region's production and are typically based on Grenache Blanc. The name "Châteauneuf-du-Pape," meaning "the pope's new castle," comes from the relocation of the papal court to Avignon in the 14th century, and the vineyards were established by Pope John XXII.

The classic Rhône Red Blend is typically made up of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grape varieties, which provide bold fruit flavors and sweet spice accents. Other varieties, such as Carignan, Cinsault, and Counoise, are also sometimes used in the blend. Although these blends originated in France's southern Rhône Valley, they have gained popularity in other countries, with some winemakers adding their own local spin. 

The Domain Charvin Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020 vintage is made up of 85% Grenache, 5% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre and 5% Vaccarese. The vine's age in the north-west of the appellation is about 60 years old on average, The north face vineyard and the sandy soils contri. The wine is produced using 100% whole-bunch vinified, fined, unfiltered grapes cultivated in concrete tanks for 18 to 21 months. 

The Domaine Charvin Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020 is an elegant and complex wine with profound notes and flavours of red and black fruits, garrigue, ground pepper, and spring flowers. Admirably captures the sunny, spicy Provençal style of the vintage. Beautiful on the palate, this medium- to full-bodied Châteauneuf du Pape has outstanding tannins and is balanced with a wonderful finish. This stunning wine is a must-have for Rhône enthusiasts, and it will provide enjoyment for at least two decades.

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - 85% Grenache, 5% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre and 5% Vaccarese
Country - France
Region - Rhône Valley
Vintage - 2020
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 15%