Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape Domaine Cristia - Vieilles Vignes - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The Domaine Cristia Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2019 Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is a distinguished red wine hailing from the southern Rhône Valley. This cuvée is crafted from a blend of grapes, predominantly Grenache, complemented by Mourvèdre and Syrah, harvested from old vines that impart a rich complexity and depth to the wine. 2019 was an exceptional vintage in the region, marked by a warm growing season, which contributed to the wine's luscious concentration of ripe fruit flavours. The terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is renowned for its galets roulés — large round pebbles that store daytime heat and release it during cooler nights, aiding in the ripening of the grapes. This unique soil composition, paired with meticulous vinification practices, results in a robust and elegant wine with a remarkable ageing potential.

The southern Rhône Valley, especially Châteauneuf-du-Pape, boasts a long-standing winemaking history that dates back to the 14th century when the papacy was relocated to Avignon. The climate is predominantly Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, providing optimal conditions for viticulture. This region's wines are deeply influenced by its terroir and climate, resulting in distinctive wines like the 2019 Cuvée Vieilles Vignes.

When it comes to pairing this wine, its full-bodied nature and robust tannins make it an excellent match for rich, hearty dishes. Traditional Provençal cuisine such as daube Provençale, a slow-cooked beef stew with herbs and red wine, complements the wine beautifully. Grilled lamb chops with rosemary or a game dish like wild boar stew would also pair exceptionally well, enhancing the wine's spicy and fruity notes.

For tasting, serve this Châteauneuf-du-Pape at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving will allow it to fully express its complex aromas and flavours. This will enhance the enjoyment of its nuanced bouquet, featuring notes of dark berries, spices, and hints of earthy undertones.