L'Oratoire des Papes : Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2015

A Châteauneuf-du-Pape from exceptional terroirs

The property

Named after the oratory located below its first plot, L’Oratoire des Papes has embodied the timeless alliance between pleasure and prestige for nearly 150 years. Revealing the purest and most contemporary expression of the four identity soils of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, these wines are recognised for their elegance well beyond the borders.

The vineyard

One of the main peculiarities of Châteauneuf-du-Pape lies in the richness and diversity of its soils, stemming from three distinct geological periods. It features limestone shards, rolled pebbles, safres and red sandstones. Faithful to this diversity, the estate adopts a respectful approach to the terroir, applying the principles of organic farming in the vineyards and favouring a low-intervention winemaking in the cellar, in order to preserve the authenticity and uniqueness of the terroirs.

Vinification and ageing

The grapes are partially vinified in whole bunches, with a percentage of stalks adjusted according to the vintage. The co-fermentation of the grape varieties, which enhances the complexity of the wines, is systematic. Fermentations start at 19-20°C and continue between 25 and 32°C depending on the vintages. The extraction of tannins, mainly carried out by small pump-overs and extended macerations, is done more by infusion than by mechanical action. The ageing lasts 12 months in French oak truncated vats, followed by an additional 8 months in concrete vats.

Blend

Black Grenache, syrah, cinsault and mourvèdre.