Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Grange St. Martin - La Pointe du Vent - 2020

Viniou Reviews

The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée La Pointe du Vent from Château La Grange St. Martin is a splendid expression of the southern Rhône's esteemed winemaking tradition. This wine is typically crafted from a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes, each contributing to its complexity and depth. Grenache provides ripe fruitiness, Syrah brings structure and spice, and Mourvèdre offers earthy, gamey notes. The terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, known for its galets roulés (round stones), contributes to the wine's richness and robust character due to excellent drainage and heat retention by the soil. The 2020 vintage is noted for its freshness and balanced acidity, stemming from a year offering optimal growing conditions.

The Rhône Valley is renowned for its Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot summers and mild winters, which greatly benefits the robust character of its wines. The historical significance of Châteauneuf-du-Pape traces back to the 14th century when the papacy settled in Avignon, granting this region its name and status. This wine region features an intriguing mix of soils such as sandy, clay, and limestone, which influence the broad stylistic range of wines produced here.

Given the full-bodied and complex nature of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, it pairs excellently with hearty dishes. Roasted lamb with herbes de Provence, beef stew, or even a richly seasoned coq au vin will complement its robust flavours. For a regional touch, try pairing it with daube provençale, a traditional Provençal beef stew that harmonises beautifully with the wine's spicy and fruity profile.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C. Consider decanting it for at least an hour before serving to allow its aromas and flavours to fully develop, revealing layers of dark fruit, spices, and earthy undertones that are the hallmark of a refined Châteauneuf-du-Pape.