Viniou Reviews
La Fiole du Pape from Père Anselme is an iconic non-vintage red from the prestigious Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC in the southern Rhône Valley. The blend typically consists of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and a touch of other authorized varieties, embodying the rich tradition of the appellation. Père Anselme’s approach involves blending multiple vintages, aiming for an immediately approachable, harmonious style. The wine presents a deep garnet colour and a complex bouquet with notes of ripe blackberries, cherry liqueur, dried herbs, sweet spices, and a subtle hint of leather. On the palate, it is generous and supple, with soft tannins and a lingering finish that reflects both fruit intensity and the subtle influence of old casks.
The Châteauneuf-du-Pape region in the southern Rhône is renowned for its pebbly soils, known as galets roulés, which absorb and radiate heat to help grapes achieve full ripeness. The Mediterranean climate ensures warm summers and mild winters, with the Mistral wind providing healthy conditions for the vines. Châteauneuf-du-Pape holds a special place in French wine history, being the first AOC designated in 1936, and remains celebrated for its tradition of blending up to thirteen permitted grape varieties, although Grenache dominates. The combination of soils, climate, and winemaking expertise results in wines of remarkable depth and character.
This style of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is particularly versatile with food. It pairs beautifully with hearty southern French dishes such as lamb shoulder confit with rosemary, daube provençale, or cassoulet. The generous fruit and balanced spice also make it a fine companion for grilled duck breast with cherries or matured cheeses like Comté and Roquefort. For a regional touch, try it with ratatouille or a classic beef stew.
To enjoy La Fiole du Pape at its best, serve it slightly below room temperature, ideally at 16-18°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes before serving can help open its aromatic profile and soften the tannins, revealing the full complexity and pleasure this Rhône classic has to offer.
