Experience the elegance of Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge, a masterful blend defined by the region's storied heritage and exceptional terroir. Crafted primarily from Grenache, with complementary notes of Mourvèdre and Syrah, this wine delivers vibrant layers of red fruits such as cherry and raspberry, balanced by earthy hints of pepper, spice, and leather. Its full-bodied palate boasts smooth tannins and a long, savory finish, embodying both richness and refinement. Perfectly paired with hearty dishes such as lamb, duck, or truffle-infused delicacies, Les Cailloux Rouge also captivates with its potential to age gracefully, evolving into more complex aromas of preserved fruits and subtle tobacco. Ideal for celebrations or intimate gatherings, this Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine is a timeless treasure for discerning connoisseurs.
Process & Profile
Les Cailloux Rouge is produced exclusively from well-handpicked grapes grown in Châteauneuf-du-Pape's unique terroirs. The vineyards, characterized by pebbly soils, red clays, and chalky limestone, contribute to the wine's robust structure and aromatic intensity. This cuvée is crafted using sustainable agricultural methods with no chemical pesticides or herbicides, ensuring the natural vitality of the vines. Aged in both concrete vats and seasoned oak barrels, the wine achieves a harmonious balance of fruit-forward flavors and refined tannins.
Blend Composition:
With an alcohol content of 14.5%, this wine boasts a robust character while maintaining an approachable profile. Les Cailloux Rouge is as delightful in its youth as it is after years of aging, with a potential of up to 20-30 years.
Tasting Notes
From the first pour, this wine enchants with its deep ruby hue and intense aromatic bouquet. On the nose, expect layers of ripe blackberries, wild strawberries, and crushed raspberries, enhanced by notes of garrigue, white pepper, and baking spices.
On the palate:
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Fruit-forward elegance: Velvety flavors of red and black fruits dominate initially.
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Spice and depth: As it evolves, notes of orange peel, white pepper, and dried herbs emerge, adding complexity.
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Texture and finish: Silky tannins lead to a long, lingering finish with savory undertones and a hint of oak.
This wine strikes the perfect balance between a fruit-driven profile and savory complexity, making it both vibrant and sophisticated.
What Makes It Special?
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Exceptional Terroir: The vineyards' diverse soils—gravel beds, clay, and limestone—impart unique attributes to the grapes, resulting in a complex and well-rounded wine.
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Sustainable Practices: Domaine André Brunel is a pioneer in eco-friendly farming, prioritizing soil vitality and minimal intervention to preserve the essence of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
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Award-Winning Excellence: Frequently recognized among the finest wines in the world, Les Cailloux Rouge has received top ratings, including 94 points from Wine Spectator and James Suckling for recent vintages, showcasing its remarkable quality year after year.
How to Enjoy
Serving Suggestions:
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Temperature: Serve slightly below room temperature, between 15-17°C, for optimal flavor expression.
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Decanting: Decant for 1-2 hours to unveil its aromatic intricacies fully.
Food Pairings:
Les Cailloux Rouge is a versatile companion to hearty dishes. Pair it with:
- Grilled meats like lamb or beef
- Tomato-based dishes such as ratatouille or fresh tomato tart
- Charcuterie boards featuring aged cheeses
Aging Potential:
While this wine is ready to enjoy now, it can be cellared for 5-10 years to develop deeper complexity and subtlety, culminating in an even more profound tasting experience.
Whether you’re commemorating a special occasion or enhancing a quiet evening, Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge offers a perfect blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and indulgence. Rediscover the artistry of Rhône Valley winemaking with each sip of this iconic vintage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the grape composition of Ch√¢teauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge?
This wine is made predominantly from Grenache (60%), with Mourvèdre (27%), Syrah (10%), and a small percentage of Cinsault (3%) to create a balanced and complex blend.
What are the tasting notes for this wine?
Ch√¢teauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge offers pronounced fruit flavors such as raspberry, black currant, and blueberry, balanced by earthy tones like leather, thyme, and dusty violet. The wine also exhibits spices like white pepper and hints of oak, resulting in a long, savory finish.
How long can this wine be aged?
Ch√¢teauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge has the potential to age for 5 to 8 years in ideal conditions. Over time, its flavors will evolve, revealing notes of preserved fruit, leather, and spice.
What food pairs well with Ch√¢teauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge?
This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as roast lamb, beef, duck, and game. For vegetarian options, try pairing it with rich dishes containing eggplant, tomatoes, or mushrooms. It also pairs well with dark chocolate (at least 65% cocoa) and truffle-based dishes.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The alcohol content is 14.5%, typical of the robust and full-bodied style of Ch√¢teauneuf-du-Pape wines.
What sets Ch√¢teauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge apart from other wines?
This wine stands out because of its elegant balance of fruit, spice, and earthy complexity. It is crafted from a family-owned estate with eco-friendly farming practices, reflecting a heritage of five generations of winemaking excellence.
What is the origin of the name "Les Cailloux"?
The name "Les Cailloux," meaning "The Pebbles," refers to the region's unique terroir featuring galets roulés, or round stones, that retain heat and contribute to the wine's distinctive character.
How should I serve this wine?
For the best experience, serve Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge at a temperature of 60–65°F (16–18°C). Decanting it for about an hour before serving will help bring out its aromas and flavors.
Does this wine use oak during production?
Yes, but sparingly. Syrah is aged in 1–2-year-old Burgundian oak barrels for subtle complexity, while the Grenache and Mourvèdre are aged in concrete vats to maintain fruit-driven purity.
Is this wine suitable for collectors?
Absolutely! With its aging potential and evolving complexity, Ch√¢teauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux Rouge is an excellent addition to any wine collection.