Introduction:
Les Sinards is Famille Perrin’s other exceptional Châteauneuf-du-Pape, made primarily from young Beaucastel vines and two neighboring vineyards. This wine, predominantly Grenache, is elegant, vibrant, and offers the renowned character of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with the benefit of youthful vines and an approachable, accessible profile. It is the perfect wine for enjoying now, offering a glimpse of the quality that defines this esteemed region.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Bright and deep ruby red.
- Nose: Elegant aromas of dark fruit, spices, and a hint of earthiness.
- Palate: Rich, full-bodied with smooth tannins, showcasing vibrant fruit flavors of ripe cherries and blackberries, complemented by subtle spices and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and balanced, leaving a delicate aftertaste of fruit and herbs.
The Vintage:
2021 was a fresh vintage reminiscent of those from the 1980s and 1990s. It is what is known as a “winegrower vintage,” where human intervention and care in the vineyard played a decisive role in the quality of the wine. Though affected by a frost in April and interrupted by rainfall during harvest, the vineyard team’s hard work resulted in a wine that boasts excellent freshness, balance, and aromatic complexity.
Location & Terroir:
Les Sinards is created from a combination of three vineyards:
- Young vines at Beaucastel (under 20 years old)
- South-west facing Syrah from Clos de Châteauneuf-du-Pape
- Grenache from Le Grès, located 4km from Beaucastel
The terroir consists of Miocene marine deposits covered with alpine diluvium (rounded pebbles) and one parcel on Urgonian limestone. The young Beaucastel vines produce a more abundant crop of slightly less concentrated grapes, while the Syrah from Clos de Châteauneuf-du-Pape adds spice and complexity. Le Grès, with its Grenache planted on pebbles, offers warmth and finesse, adding to the wine’s elegant structure.
Winemaking:
The grapes are harvested separately, with maturity checks and tasting carried out regularly from August onwards. The Syrah is partially vinified in whole clusters, while the Grenache is destemmed. Fermentation takes place in both wooden and stainless-steel vats, using the same traditional techniques as those employed for Château de Beaucastel wines. After blending, the wine is aged in foudres for 2 years to develop its character and complexity.
Food Pairings:
Les Sinards pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled meats, especially lamb
- Roasted vegetables
- Soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert
- Provençal dishes such as ratatouille
Wine Analysis:
Alcohol: 14.5%
Contains sulphites
Aged for 2 years in foudres
Serving Suggestions:
Serve at 15-17°C, ideally decanted to allow the aromas and flavors to fully open up.