Chateau de Vaudieu Chateauneuf du Pape L'Avenue 2018

Drink now or cellar for up to 20 years. Decant 1 hour before serving. One of the Southern Rhone’s oldest estates, Chateau de Vaudieu was built by Admiral Gérin in 1767 and named after the nearby ‘Val de Dieu” or “Valley of God”. Vaudieu was one of the first local estates to start exporting their wines abroad and for the past 50 years it has been owned by the Brechet family who have steadily expanded the property to 70 hectares of vineyards. L’Avenue is one of their flagship wines which is made in limited quantities from 100% Grenache grown on sandy and limestone soils. The vines used range from 40 to 70 years of age and the fruit is harvested by hand to ensure it arrives at the winery in great condition. This particular cuvee was created to showcase the Vaudieu terroir, so the young wine is aged in demi-muids which are larger than standard oak barrels to give muted oak influence. Enchanting floral notes, dark cherries, dried herbs and ripe berry notes dominate on the nose, while the first sip reveals a silky smooth texture, fine tannins, and a bright core of luscious fruit flavours. Powerful yet balanced, this is a great wine to match with everything from charcuterie to a prime steak or roasted meats. It can also be cellared for a decade or more if desired.

Price: £65.47 from 8wines UK