Viniou Reviews
Aux Armes Pontificales 2024 is a red Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a prestigious appellation nestled in the southern stretches of the Rhône Valley. While details on the precise blend aren’t specified, Châteauneuf-du-Pape reds are typically dominated by Grenache, complemented by Syrah, Mourvèdre and occasionally small proportions of other permitted varieties. The 2024 vintage is likely to reveal youthful energy, with vibrant berry fruits, sweet spices, and the hallmark warm structure emblematic of the region. Vinification here usually favours a balance between freshness and power, preserving both the vivid fruit character and the underlying complexity imparted by old vines and traditional winemaking.
The Châteauneuf-du-Pape region benefits from a warm, Mediterranean climate, with abundant sunshine, low rainfall, and the influential mistral wind that helps maintain healthy vines. Soils are famously stony, consisting of rolled pebbles known as galets roulés that store the heat of the day and release it overnight, aiding ripeness and depth in the wines. With a rich history tracing back to the papal residency in Avignon, the area has forged a strong identity as a cradle for some of France’s most characterful and long-lived reds.
With its robust yet nuanced structure, this wine is best paired with richly flavoured dishes that can match its intensity. Consider Provençal slow-cooked lamb shoulder studded with garlic and rosemary, hearty beef daube, or roasted game birds. The wine’s spice and generosity also harmonise beautifully with aubergine-based ratatouille, while mature cheeses such as Comté or aged Gouda make fine accompaniments. For a traditional touch, a platter of saucisson sec and tapenade echoes local fare perfectly.
To enjoy Aux Armes Pontificales 2024 at its best, serve it at 16-18°C. If opening within its youth, consider decanting for at least an hour to allow the expressive bouquet and sumptuous palate to unfold. This will reveal the full depth of fruit, herbal nuances, and refined tannins characteristic of a fine Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
