Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape Château Rayas - 2007

This 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Château Rayas is an exceptional example of the southern Rhône's prowess with Grenache-based red blends. Often considered one of the region’s crown jewels, Château Rayas is renowned for producing pure expressions of Grenache, with the 2007 vintage being particularly celebrated for its opulence and structure. The terroir is noteworthy: the vineyard eschews the region's typical galets roulés (large rounded pebbles) in favour of sandy soils, which help to create wines of remarkable finesse and aromatic complexity. The winemaking at Rayas remains staunchly traditional, emphasising low yields, manual harvesting, and extended vatting, with fermentation in concrete tanks and ageing in old oak barrels to fully express the typicity of the variety and the nuance of the site.

The Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC is one of France’s most prestigious appellations, rooted in a winemaking history that dates back to the Papal Court of Avignon in the 14th century. The Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot summers and the influence of the Mistral wind, helps grapes reach exceptional levels of ripeness while maintaining freshness. Soils in the region are generally a mosaic of galets, sand, clay, and limestone, but Rayas’s sandy plots impart unique elegance and seductive aromatics to their wines, setting them apart from their peers.

Given its sophisticated profile—ripe red berries, kirsch, wild herbs, spice, and a silky, supple texture—this wine pairs beautifully with dishes that mirror its richness and aromatic depth. Roasted duck with Provençal herbs, lamb shoulder slow-cooked with rosemary and garlic, or a truffled pigeon dish would all complement its complexity. For a regional touch, try it with ratatouille or daube Provençale (a slow-cooked beef stew with olives and herbs).

For optimal enjoyment, decant this wine at least an hour before serving to allow its aromatics to fully unfurl. Serve at around 16-18°C, which highlights both fruit and spice while preserving freshness. While certainly enjoyable now, this wine will continue to reward patient cellaring for many more years.