Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a famous appellation in the south of the Rhône Valley, is recognized for its powerful and elegant red wines, but also for its rarer white wines. One of its great particularities lies in the diversity of its ampelographic heritage.
The tradition of the appellation retains 13 historical grape varieties. Some exist in several colors — black, gray, white or pink — which explains why the regulations can also refer to a list of 18 varieties when they are counted separately.
The 13 historic grape varieties of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
- Grenache — black, gray and white: the emblematic grape variety of the appellation, bringing fullness, fruit, structure and aging potential.
- Syrah — it contributes to the color, structure and spicy notes.
- Mourvèdre — it brings depth, tannins and aromas of black fruits.
- Cinsault — appreciated for its fruit, its suppleness and its finesse.
- Clairette — white or pink: it brings freshness and delicacy to blends.
- Vaccarèse — a rare grape variety with floral and spicy notes.
- Bourboulenc — it contributes to the freshness and balance of white wines.
- Roussanne — it brings finesse, aromatic richness and ability to age.
- Counoise — appreciated for its freshness, its fruit and its liveliness.
- Muscardin — a confidential grape variety which brings finesse and complexity.
- Picpoul — white, gray and black: it brings liveliness and tension.
- Picardan — a rare white grape variety, used for its freshness and aromatic discretion.
- Terret noir — it brings lightness, finesse and freshness.
Why so many grape varieties?
Historically, vines were often planted: several grape varieties grew together on the same plot. This diversity allowed winegrowers to compose their blends according to the terroirs, the conditions of the vintage and the desired style.
Even today, each estate constructs its own identity. Grenache generally remains predominant, but other grape varieties can provide color, freshness, structure, aromatic finesse or longevity.
Reds and whites: two expressions of the appellation
Châteauneuf-du-Pape reds
They can be generous, powerful and spicy, or more fine and elegant depending on the terroir and the blend. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre often occupy an important place, supplemented by more confidential grape varieties.
White Châteauneuf-du-Pape
More rare, they can notably combine Grenache blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Picpoul or Picardan. They offer profiles ranging from floral freshness to a fuller and more complex texture.
Discover these wines at Maison Molinet
At the house of House Molinet, we select red and white Châteauneuf-du-Pape expressing different styles of the appellation: fruity vintages, structured wines, aging bottles and more confidential productions.
- generous and spicy reds;
- elegant and balanced vintages;
- rare and aromatic whites;
- wines suitable for tasting, dining or as a gift.
📦 Discover our selection of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
A question about an estate or a vintage? Contact Maison Molinet for advice personalized.
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