Châteauneuf-du-Pape French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the most famous appellation of the southern Rhône, renowned for rich, powerful, Grenache-based reds and full-bodied whites, and for its iconic large rounded stones.
More info about Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Geographic position
Southeastern France, in the Vaucluse department, on the left bank of the Rhône between Orange and Avignon, covering Châteauneuf-du-Pape and parts of four neighbouring communes, opposite Tavel and Lirac.
Origin & history
In the 14th century the popes, then based in Avignon, built a summer castle here (the "new castle of the pope") and promoted the wines. In 1923 Baron Le Roy of Château Fortia drew up strict production rules that inspired the French AOC system, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape became one of the first AOCs in 1936.
Wines & grape varieties
Mostly red, from up to 13 permitted varieties, led by Grenache with Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Counoise. Whites blend Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne and Bourboulenc. Expect ripe red fruit, garrigue, leather and spice.
Climate & soil
Hot Mediterranean climate with the Mistral. Galets roulés (rounded stones) over red clay, plus sand and limestone.
Wine region: Rhône
Grape varieties: Bourboulenc, Cinsault, Clairette, Counoise, Grenache Noir, Grenache Blanc, Mourvèdre, Roussanne, Syrah