Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cellier des Princes - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Cellier des Princes Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2022 exemplifies the rich heritage of one of France’s most revered appellations. Produced from a blend typical of the region, with Grenache as the dominant grape, complemented by Syrah and Mourvèdre, this wine reveals a deep, garnet hue and complex aromas of ripe red berries, spices, garrigue, and hints of leather. The 2022 vintage was shaped by a long, warm ripening season, giving the wine an ample structure, rounded tannins, and expressive fruit, balanced with subtle oak influences from careful ageing in large French foudres.

The Châteauneuf-du-Pape region, nestled in the southern Rhône Valley, boasts a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, mild winters, and the famous Mistral wind that helps keep the vines healthy. The soils are renowned for their diversity, particularly the iconic galets roulés – large, heat-retaining pebbles that foster optimal ripening and add an unmistakable finesse and power to the wines. The history of this winegrowing area dates back centuries, with papal patronage in the 14th century elevating its status. Today, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is synonymous with robust, age-worthy reds of remarkable character.

With its opulent fruit and spicy complexity, this wine pairs elegantly with richly flavoured dishes, particularly those reflecting the local cuisine. Think of slow-cooked lamb shoulder with Provençal herbs, duck breast with fig compote, or game dishes in red wine sauce. Roasted vegetables with herbes de Provence or an aubergine gratin would make excellent plant-based companions. A platter of mature cheeses such as aged Comté or a rustic Roquefort can also reveal new facets of the wine.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the Cellier des Princes Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2022 for at least an hour before serving. Pour at a temperature of 16-18°C to highlight its aromatic richness and velvety texture. This bottled promise of the Rhône will evolve beautifully in your cellar, unfurling further layers of complexity with time.