Clos du Calvaire 2021 is a red Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC from the southern Rhône Valley, a renowned region for robust and complex red wines. This appellation mandates a blend, where Grenache typically dominates, supported by Syrah, Mourvèdre, and possibly a mix of up to 13 permitted grape varieties. The 2021 vintage, shaped by cooler conditions compared to previous years, often results in wines with fresh acidity, deep fruit character, and slightly lower alcohol, promising a harmonious and elegant balance. The Clos du Calvaire estate is known for its traditional approach—selective hand harvest, moderate extraction, and ageing in a mix of concrete and large old foudres—allowing the wine to express both fruit purity and the aromatic complexity emblematic of the terroir.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape sits in the sun-drenched southern Rhône, where the climate is Mediterranean. Here, hot, dry summers are mitigated by the Mistral wind, which helps keep the vines healthy and concentrates the grapes' flavours. The region’s hallmark galets roulés—large round pudding stones—covering sandy and clay-limestone soils, store heat during the day and gently radiate it at night, contributing to the maturity and silky tannins of the wines. The area is steeped in history, its name referencing the 14th-century Papal residence, and it has been a beacon of quality and authenticity in French winemaking for centuries.
Given its structure and aromatic depth, Clos du Calvaire 2021 pairs beautifully with slow-cooked lamb shoulder with Provençal herbs, duck breast with figs, or daube de bœuf, a regional braised beef stew. Vegetarian options like wild mushroom ragout or aubergine gratin work just as well, echoing the wine's earthy complexity.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before serving will enhance its aromatic profile and soften the youthful tannins. While approachable now, it has the structure to age gracefully for up to a decade or more.
