Viniou Reviews
Tardieu-Laurent’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Vieilles Vignes 2019 is a refined and expressive wine, crafted from some of the region’s oldest parcels. Typically, this white blend unites Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Clairette, and occasionally Bourboulenc and Picpoul, resulting in a layered, complex profile. The 2019 vintage in the Southern Rhône was marked by a warm growing season, delivering rich yet balanced wines with vibrant acidity. Vieilles Vignes, meaning "old vines," suggests an additional degree of intensity and concentration, with low yields heightening both aromatic complexity and texture. The winemaking at Tardieu-Laurent emphasises gentle handling and minimal intervention—hand-harvested fruit, careful pressing, and ageing both in stainless steel and barrel to preserve delicacy while adding subtle structure and depth.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of the Rhône Valley’s most storied appellations, located just north of Avignon. The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate, with abundant sunshine, warm summers, and the cooling influence of the mistral wind. The characteristic galets roulés (rounded stones) covering the soils help store heat during the day and release it at night, assisting in the full ripening of grapes, while deep-rooted old vines access vital minerals and contribute to the wine’s sense of place. Historically, Châteauneuf-du-Pape was among the first French regions to institute formal vineyard classification, setting high standards for quality.
Thanks to its richness and subtle aromatic nuance, this Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc matches beautifully with flavourful dishes. Think of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine: grilled sea bass with fennel, a creamy seafood risotto, or roast chicken with Provençal herbs. Locally, a traditional dish like brandade de morue or a goats’ cheese tart would complement the wine’s freshness and subtle spice.
To fully appreciate the wine’s nuances, serve it chilled but not too cold—ideally between 10-12°C. Decanting for 20-30 minutes can help reveal its full aromatic potential. Enjoy over the next five to eight years, allowing the subtle honeyed and nutty notes to develop gracefully.
