Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape NOT_FOUND - Domaine du Vieux Lazaret - 1998

Viniou Reviews

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, one of the most prestigious appellations in France's Rhône Valley, is renowned for its rich and complex wines. This 1998 Blanc from Domaine du Vieux Lazaret is particularly intriguing; it's produced using a blend typical of the region, though specifics on the blend are often secretive, favouring Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, and Clairette. The Southern Rhône's sunny climate, combined with its diverse soil types, imparts a distinctive character to these wines. Domaine du Vieux Lazaret, with its historical significance and dedication to traditional methods, crafts wines that are both robust and intricate, embodying the essence of the terroir and a vintage known for its exceptional balance and intensity.

Pairing this Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc with food can elevate its elegant flavours. Consider dishes such as roasted poultry with herbs, creamy seafood risotto, or a fragrant bouillabaisse. Regional pairings, like Provençal dishes, would harmoniously complement the wine’s structure and enhance its floral and stone fruit notes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at around 12°C (54°F). Decanting is advisable, giving it around 30 minutes to open up will help to reveal its layers of aroma and complexity. Begin your tasting by admiring the wine's colour and clarity, followed by gentle swirling to release its bouquet. On the nose, you’ll find aromas of ripe peach and honey, while on the palate, anticipate a nuanced balance between its richness and subtle acidity.