Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape Château Saint Cosme - Châteauneuf-du-Pape - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Château Saint Cosme's Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2018 is a distinguished red wine from the Southern Rhône, crafted in the heart of one of France’s most historic appellations. The 2018 vintage benefits from a balanced season, with moderate warmth and just enough rainfall to encourage phenolic ripeness. The blend, typical of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, likely features Grenache as the dominant grape, harmoniously blended with Syrah, Mourvèdre, and perhaps small proportions of other permitted varietals such as Cinsault or Counoise. The terroir is iconic—a mosaic of galets roulés (rounded pebbles), sandy soils, and clay, which retain heat and promote slow, even maturation, resulting in wines of remarkable depth and character. Traditional vinification methods, with careful extraction and ageing in both concrete tanks and large old oak foudres, allow the fruit and structure to shine without overt influence from new wood.

The Southern Rhône’s Mediterranean climate plays a vital role in the wine’s profile, with dry summers, ample sunshine, and the famous mistral wind bringing freshness and protecting the vines from disease. The region's geological complexity—ancient alluvial terraces and limestone plateaux—gifts the wine both power and finesse. Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s rich wine history stretches back to the 14th century and papal residency in Avignon, reflected today in the energy and grandeur of its wines.

With such an expressive and structured red, food pairing is a delight. The wine’s layers of ripe black fruit, herbes de Provence, spices, and subtle minerality make it ideal with hearty dishes: think slow-cooked lamb shank with rosemary, Provençal beef daube, or game bird with wild mushrooms. For a regional experience, pair it with a classic ratatouille, roast duck with figs or, for cheese, a mature Comté or Saint-Marcellin.

Allow the wine to breathe before serving to unfurl its complex aromatics. For optimum enjoyment, decant for about an hour, and serve at 16-18°C. This will highlight its silky tannins, vibrant fruit, and peppery finish. Suitable to drink now with a meal, but will also reward additional cellaring for greater integration of flavours.