Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape Famille Perrin Les Sinards - Les Sinards - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Famille Perrin Les Sinards 2021 is a fine representative of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, one of the Rhône Valley’s most revered appellations. This cuvée is crafted from classic southern Rhône varietals, typically led by Grenache, accompanied by Syrah and Mourvèdre, though the exact blend may vary slightly each vintage. The 2021 vintage delivers a youthful vibrancy while expressing the richness expected from the terroir. The grapes are sourced from stony, clay-limestone soils laden with the hallmark galets roulés (rounded stones), which retain daytime heat and help ripen the fruit to optimal maturity. Vinification at Famille Perrin champions traditional methods, employing gentle extraction and ageing in large oak vessels to preserve both the varietal character and the nuances of the terroir.

The southern Rhône’s Mediterranean climate, with its hot, dry summers and the cleansing effect of the mistral wind, cultivates intensely flavoured, concentrated wines well known for their ability to age. Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s history dates back to the 14th century, when the Popes resided in nearby Avignon and promoted viticulture in the region. The vineyards are dotted with ancient vines, and the diversity of soils in the area—from sandy parcels to the iconic galets—helps impart remarkable complexity and structure to the wines produced.

As for food pairings, this Châteauneuf-du-Pape rouge displays scents of ripe black fruit, wild herbs, spice, and subtle notes of leather and earth. Its full body and firm tannins serve well with hearty dishes, such as roast lamb with Provençal herbs, duck breast with a cherry or fig sauce, or braised beef in red wine. To echo the region, a traditional daube provençale or game bird with ratatouille would be perfect matches, highlighting both the savoury and aromatic notes of the wine.

Serve this wine slightly below room temperature, ideally at 16-18°C. Decanting for at least an hour will help the wine’s bouquet unfold, softening the tannins and enhancing the experience of this promising young vintage.