Viniou Reviews
The 2023 Closerie de Vaudieu Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge is a distinguished wine crafted chiefly from Grenache, with Syrah and Mourvèdre often lending further structure and complexity. The terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is famed for its distinctive “galets roulés”—large, sun-baked pebbles that retain heat and contribute to the optimal ripening of the grapes. In 2023, favourable growing conditions have led to a wine expressing both exuberance and classic balance. The vinification process at Closerie de Vaudieu typically involves traditional fermentation methods followed by careful maturation, allowing the aromas of ripe red fruits, garrigue herbs, and subtle spice to evolve harmoniously.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a flagship appellation of the southern Rhône Valley, renowned for its rich, powerful reds. The region benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine, tempered by the mistral wind, which keeps vines healthy and grapes concentrated. The soils are a mosaic of clay, sand, limestone, and the aforementioned galets roulés, contributing directly to the complexity and signature style of the local wines. The region traces its winemaking legacy to the 14th century, when the papal court settled in Avignon, further cementing its reputation for producing exceptional, age-worthy wines.
With its full body, rich palate, and nuanced savoury notes, the Closerie de Vaudieu 2023 pairs beautifully with robust dishes. Consider serving this wine with slow-cooked lamb shoulder seasoned with Provençal herbs, duck breast with cherry sauce, or a hearty cassoulet. It also echoes wonderfully with regional fare such as daube Provençale or grilled Mediterranean vegetables drizzled in olive oil and garlic. For a local cheese option, opt for an aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire.
To fully appreciate the aromatic depth and complexity of this Châteauneuf-du-Pape, serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for at least an hour before serving is recommended to allow the wine’s bouquet to unfold and its tannins to soften. This wine can be enjoyed now for its youthful fruit, though a few years of cellaring will undoubtedly bring further sophistication and harmony.
