Introduction:
Château de Beaucastel is regarded as one of France’s finest wines, celebrated for its elegance, balance, and aging potential. The vineyard, located at the northern limit of Châteauneuf du Pape and exposed to the Mistral wind, has been organically farmed since the 1960s. The wine is made from all thirteen grape varieties authorized by the appellation, each contributing to a unique and complex character.
Tasting Notes:
Varietals:
- Grenache: 30%
- Mourvèdre: 30%
- Syrah: 15%
- Counoise: 10%
- Other varietals: 15% (including Vaccarèse, Terret Noir, Muscardin, Clairette, Picpoul, Picardan, Bourboulenc, Roussanne, Cinsault)
Location:
Châteauneuf du Pape, between Orange and Avignon, with a 70-hectare vineyard at Château de Beaucastel.
Terroir:
The vineyard is situated on classic Châteauneuf terroir, with rolled pebbles on the surface, and sand, clay, and limestone deeper down. The old vines, organically farmed for over 50 years, benefit from deep root systems, which contribute to the complexity of the wine.
Ageing:
After a manual harvest, each grape variety undergoes separate vinification. The wine is then aged in oak Foudres for a year before bottling, allowing the blend to mature and develop a refined character.
Serving:
Best served at around 15°C. If possible, decant before serving to enhance its full expression.
Wine Profile:
- Appearance: Bright red with carmine highlights.
- Nose: A superb bouquet of black fruit aromas, with floral hints of violet.
- Palate: Full-bodied and silky, with a dense mouthfeel, perfectly balanced freshness, and remarkable length. The wine is complex, refined, and harmonious, showing maturity and exceptional quality.
Food Pairings:
This wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including:
- Grilled lamb or beef with rosemary
- Roasted vegetables with herbs
- Mushroom risotto or wild mushroom dishes
- Aged cheeses such as Comté or Roquefort
- Rich, dark chocolate desserts
A perfect choice for special occasions, it will enhance a meal and continue to develop beautifully with age.