The 2022 Bosquet des Papes "Cuvée À la Gloire de mon Grand-Père" from Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a striking red wine that exemplifies the appellation’s traditional style and respect for heritage. Crafted predominantly from Grenache, which is customary for this particular cuvée, it often incorporates smaller percentages of old vines of Mourvèdre and Syrah, cultivated on the famed galets roulés (rounded pebbles) and red clay soils of the region. The 2022 vintage, marked by moderate warmth and overall balanced ripening, provided grapes of generous concentration, with the estate favouring classic vinification methods, including hand harvesting, traditional fermentation, and prolonged maturation in foudres to preserve the old-vine character and lend textural finesse.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, situated in the southern reaches of the Rhône Valley, benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and the cooling influence of the mistral wind, which helps protect the vines from disease and ensures even ripening. The region’s distinct terroir, dominated by stony soils and deep alluvial layers, is integral to the wines’ robust structure and profound aromatic complexity. With a history dating back to the Avignon Popes of the 14th century, Châteauneuf-du-Pape has long been associated with intensity, longevity and traditional viticultural practices that prioritise the expression of site.
This wine’s ample body, ripe black fruit core, sun-baked herbal notes, and subtle garrigue make it a superb companion to regional fare such as lamb shoulder with rosemary, cassoulet, or daube provençale. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with grilled duck breast, wild mushroom risotto, or aged hard cheeses like Comté or Cantal.
To appreciate the full spectrum of aromatics and texture, decant the wine for at least one hour before serving at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. Enjoy now for its generous fruit, or allow it to evolve over the next decade for increased complexity and savoury nuance.
