Viniou Reviews
Famille Perrin’s 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Les Sinards” is a benchmark red from one of the most esteemed appellations in the southern Rhône Valley. This cuvée typically blends Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, grapes that together offer a harmony of structure, depth and aromatic complexity. In 2022, a vintage marked by generosity and ripe conditions, the wine reveals rich plum and dark berry notes, layered with spice, garrigue and hints of liquorice. The terroir—pebbly galets roulés soils over clay and sand—helps temper the ripening, giving the wine both opulence and a distinctive freshness. Ageing, part in traditional foudres and part in vats, brings suppleness to the tannins while preserving the vibrancy of fruit.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape sits in the southernmost part of the Rhône valley, famed for its Mediterranean climate with warm summers, Mistral winds to keep the vines healthy, and a patchwork of vineyard soils. The presence of the large, heat-storing galets is unique to this area and encourages gradual, even ripening. Historically, the region owes much to papal patronage in the 14th century, and today the appellation is celebrated for producing some of the Rhône’s most valued reds, distinguished by their power, balance, and longevity.
For pairing, this wine’s richness and depth make it ideal with robust, flavourful dishes. Classic French options such as roasted lamb with rosemary, duck confit or beef daube Provencal match beautifully; it also complements Mediterranean cuisine, like ratatouille or grilled vegetables with tapenade. Hard, aged cheeses such as Comté or aged Gouda work well alongside its textured palate.
To best appreciate its complexity and aromatic intensity, decant “Les Sinards” for an hour before serving and present at 16-18°C. The wine is approachable in its youth yet will reward cellaring over the next decade, gaining further refinement and elegance with time.
