Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape Closerie de Vaudieu - 2024

Viniou Reviews

The Closerie de Vaudieu Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2024 is a remarkable white wine that showcases both the tradition and innovation of Southern Rhône winemaking. Typically crafted from a blend of grape varieties such as Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Clairette, and Bourboulenc, this semi-sweet vintage (demi-sec) strikes a lovely balance between delicate sweetness and vibrant freshness. Produced from the 2024 harvest, the wine captures the vitality of a recent vintage with expressive aromatics and a lively palate profile. The terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is renowned for its galets roulés (large rounded pebbles), which store and radiate heat, supporting optimal grape ripening while the mistral wind preserves freshness. Vinification in this region often involves careful temperature control and partial ageing in oak or on fine lees, imparting both complexity and a silky texture to the wine.

The broader Southern Rhône is defined by its Mediterranean climate—hot, sunny summers and mild winters, coupled with varied soils including sand, limestone, and clay with those famous pebbles. Historically, Châteauneuf-du-Pape holds a prestigious place as one of France’s earliest regulated appellations, with roots tracing back to the papal residency in Avignon during the 14th century. The diversity of soils and grape varieties allows for a fascinating spectrum of wines, both red and white, with whites often being the lesser-known gems of the region.

For food pairings, this semi-sweet Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc pairs beautifully with mildly spiced Asian cuisine, duck à l’orange, or seafood in creamy sauces. Regional pairings include dishes such as Provençal bouillabaisse or roasted guinea fowl with apricots, which embrace the wine’s fruit and aromatic notes while balancing its modest sweetness. Cheeses like mild goat cheese or a young Comté would equally complement its texture.

For the best experience, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally at 10-12°C. This will enhance its aromatic complexity while maintaining its balance and freshness. Decanting is generally not necessary with a young, aromatic white such as this. Enjoy in young glasses to fully appreciate its nuances and lively character.