Châteauneuf-du-pape Wine

Chateauneuf du Pape

Chateauneuf du Pape is the best-known appellation in the Southern Rhone. It takes its name from the Pope’s residence in Avignon during the 14th Century; it translates roughly as “the Pope’s new castle.”

The wines are typically full-bodied, ripe reds, though some white wine is made from Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, and Bourboulenc. About 13 grape varieties are permitted, but Grenache is the most important by a wide margin. Other widely planted ones include Mourvedre, Syrah, and Cinsaut. Ch. de Beaucastel, one of the best producers of Chateaneuf du Pape, makes a point of cultivating all 13 permitted varieties.