Following a mild, wet winter that replenished groundwater reserves, the season was notable for its precocity. Frost damage from the episode of March 25 was, very fortunately, limited, and in the course of the equally mild and damp spring that ensued, regular applications of tisanes and essential oils effectively protected the crop. Flowering that started in the second week of May confirmed the early nature of the vintage. The plentiful water resources accumulated over winter and the occasional summer showers ensured a progressive and optimum ripening of the grapes.
The harvest was particularly splendid and picking lasted from August 25 to the final days of September.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is characterized by the diversity of its soils, with a mosaic of plots where different varieties grow together on limestone rock, round pebbles on a clay substrate with varying amounts of iron, and fine sedimentary sand.
The grapes are hand-picked and sorted in the vineyard.
WinemakingLong, gentle pressing and co-fermentation.
AgeingMaturing in stainless steel vats, small foudres and oak
barrels for 6 months.
