Domaine des Sénéchaux : Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2010

A refined Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine with an alluring richness

The estate

With origins dating back to the 14th century, Domaine des Sénéchaux is recognised as one of the oldest vineyards in Castro Novo, the land that produces the wines of the Pope. An essential reference among fine Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines, the estate was acquired in 2006 by the Cazes family, who also own the prestigious Château Lynch-Bages, a Grand Cru Classé in Pauillac.

Domaine des Sénéchaux watches over 27 hectares of vines that are rooted in the most noble terroirs of this iconic Rhône Valley appellation.

The vineyard

This 2010 Châteauneuf-du-Pape by the Domaine des Sénéchaux stems from a tapestry of terroirs, composed of clay, limestone, mollassic sandstone, saffron and sand depending on the plot.

The vintage

Cold conditions during a winter marked by two episodes of snowfall delayed the budburst as well as the flowering period and the noticeable coulure had an impact on yields, particularly on the Grenache terroirs. A mild summer favoured both the crop development and the ripening process and led to an impeccable phenolic content, all while preserving a beautiful freshness.

Vinification and ageing

Vatting for 28 to 33 days. The wine is aged for 12 to 14 months, 25% in first-fill barrels, 60% in tuns and 15% in vats.

The blend

Grenache Noir (56%)

Syrah (22%)

Mourvèdre (20%)

Vaccarèse - Cinsault (2%)

Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2010 by Domaine des Sénéchaux: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

The colour is a beautiful garnet red, with subtle purplish hues.

Nose

Intense, the nose combines delicious fragrances of ripe red fruit, a typical feature of the Grenache grape variety, with spicy and woody notes.

Palate

The palate is seduced by the raspberry, blackcurrant, spices and liquorice aromas. Racy, the palate reveals very fine tannins that seamlessly weave into a persistent and well-balanced finish that exudes delicious candied and toasted notes.