Viniou Reviews
The Château Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvée Hommage à Jacques Perrin" 2019 is a distinguished red wine from the southern Rhône Valley. This wine is a blend typically dominated by Mourvèdre, complemented by other varieties such as Grenache, Syrah, and Counoise, contributing to its profound complexity and depth. The terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is renowned for its galets roulés, large pebbles that retain heat during the day and release it at night, promoting full ripeness of the grapes. Being biodynamically certified, the wine embodies a holistic approach to vineyard management, enhancing both vitality of the vines and expression of the terroir.
The Rhône Valley, particularly the southern area, is characterised by a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, favouring robust, full-bodied red wines. The region boasts a rich viticultural heritage dating back to Roman times. Châteauneuf-du-Pape itself is steeped in history, gaining prominence under the popes who resided in nearby Avignon in the 14th century.
For food pairings, this powerful and richly textured wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes. Consider a traditional Provençal beef daube, slow-cooked with herbs and vegetables. Its intensity also complements dishes such as lamb shanks with rosemary or a game pie. For regional flair, try pairing with a platter of charcuterie featuring French meats like saucisson and terrines. Additionally, rich cheeses such as aged Comté or Roquefort can wonderfully highlight the wine's complexity.
When it comes to tasting, serve this wine slightly below room temperature, allowing it to open up and reveal its layers of aroma and flavour. The optimal serving temperature would be between 16-18°C. To maximise its potential, consider decanting for an hour before serving to allow the wine's bouquet and structure to fully evolve. This 2019 vintage promises both immediate enjoyment and further development with careful cellaring over the next decade or more.
