Château Vaudieu’s Cuvée Val de Dieu 2017 is a distinguished red Châteauneuf-du-Pape that embodies the complexity and depth of one of the Rhône Valley’s most revered appellations. The blend, characteristic of the region, typically features Grenache as the dominant varietal, complemented by Syrah and Mourvèdre. The 2017 vintage benefits from a warm, dry growing season, resulting in expressive, ripe fruit and well-structured tannins. The terroir at Château Vaudieu is exceptional, with its iconic galets roulés – large, rounded stones – that retain the sun’s warmth and reflect it onto the vines, ensuring optimal ripening. The wine undergoes traditional vinification, often with extended maceration to extract colour, flavour, and fine tannins, followed by maturation in a mix of large oak vats and smaller barrels to develop complexity and integration.
The southern Rhône, and particularly Châteauneuf-du-Pape, is steeped in viticultural heritage, with a Mediterranean climate marked by hot, sun-drenched summers and the cooling mistral wind that helps maintain vine health. The diversity of soils – ranging from sandy parcels to limestone, clay, and those famous galets roulés – contributes to the nuanced and layered profile of the wines. This historic area has been producing celebrated wines since the 14th century when the Papacy established its summer residence in Avignon, lending its name to the appellation.
A wine of this pedigree and structure calls for hearty, flavourful dishes. Traditional Provençal fare such as slow-cooked lamb shank with herbs, daube de boeuf à la provençale, or roasted duck breast with figs will pair beautifully. The wine’s intensity and aromatic richness also make it an excellent companion to dishes featuring wild mushrooms, grilled aubergines, or a classic ratatouille. For a decadent finish, try it with a selection of aged cheeses like Comté or Tomme de Savoie.
For optimal enjoyment, serve Château Vaudieu Cuvée Val de Dieu 2017 between 16-18°C. Decant for at least an hour prior to tasting to allow the bouquet to open up and the tannins to soften, revealing the full spectrum of its aromatic complexity and depth. This vintage has excellent ageing potential but can also be savoured now with proper aeration.
