The Domaine Berthet Rayne 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an exemplary red wine marked by complexity and refinement. Mostly composed of Grenache, with likely complementary proportions of Syrah, Mourvèdre, and perhaps Cinsault, this vintage embodies the classic hallmarks of the appellation. The wine reveals a deep, garnet hue and delivers aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries, hints of liquorice, garrigue herbs, and subtle spice. The palate is full-bodied yet balanced, with velvety tannins supporting flavours of dark fruit, leather, and a refined mineral underpinning suggestive of its terroir. Vinification at Domaine Berthet Rayne favours gentle extraction and traditional maturation, often in large oak foudres, allowing the character of the grapes and the land to shine through.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape hails from the southernmost reaches of the Rhône Valley, a region shaped by Mediterranean climate influences: warm, sun-drenched days and the persistent mistral wind aid in producing ripe, concentrated grapes. The terroir here is famed for its galets roulés—rounded pudding stones that store heat, ensuring excellent grape maturation. With deep roots in papal history (the name meaning “The Pope’s new castle,” referencing the exile of the Papal court in nearby Avignon), the wines from this region have long been celebrated for their power and elegance.
This Châteauneuf-du-Pape would be beautifully complemented by robust, rustic dishes. Consider pairing it with slow-cooked lamb shoulder with herbes de Provence, duck magret, or a classic coq au vin. Regional specialities such as daube provençale (a rich Provençal beef stew) will also harmonise with the wine’s structure and herbal notes. For cheese, opt for aged varieties such as Comté or mature Tomme de Savoie.
To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity, serve at 16-18°C in large, rounded glasses. Decanting for one to two hours before serving will help the wine open up, revealing its full depth and sumptuous texture. This bottle has the potential for further aging but is already enjoyable in its youth with the right culinary accompaniments.
