Châteauneuf-du-Pape/Tavel Communiqué

Two AOC’s (classified wine varieties) which were born at the same time in 1936. Both are at the top of the French AOC wines and are recognized as ‘crû’ of the southern Rhône valley.

Situated on both sides of the Rhône River, Châteauneuf-du-Pape on the left bank produces 94% red wines and 6% white wines; Tavel on the right bank produces only rosé wines. Both classifications benefit from record sunshine hours per year; 2,800 hours on average. The rainfall is low, 670 mm per year and the famous ‘Mistral’ wind has the beneficial effect of keeping the grapes and the vineyards in an optimal sanitary state.

These favorable climactic conditions allow the grapes to attain perfect maturity.

The rosé wines of Tavel are oily, full bodied and coloured, with aromas of red fruits and sometimes, of violet. Combining nine grape varieties, three ‘terroirs’ or soil types, a specific type of vinification and an exceptional gustatory profile, Tavel is a unique rosé. The ‘King’ of rosés.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape has a geological legacy of 4 soil types on which 13 grape varieties are united. The young white wines are marked by aromas of white wild flowers and citrus fruits. In the mouth they are concentrated, aromatic and elevated by a lovely freshness. These whites evolve sometimes with hints of honey and spices. The red wines are fine and strong.

Characterised by aromas of red fruits, morello cherries and spices, they are rich and generous. As they age, they evolve towards hints of laurel, truffles and sometimes game.

The history of the Tavel wines was born in antiquity, but it blossomed in the XIV century. Thanks to the influence of the Popes in Avignon, who appreciated Tavel wines, they were exported by boat on the Rhône River to the pontifical court in Rome. Thereby they acquired the favour of the princely Italian courts. Also on the Rhône River, the wines were exported towards Burgundy and Paris, thus connecting with the nobility and the kings of France.

While the vines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape have existed since Roman times around city of Orange, they developed throughout the XIV century. At this time the Popes were installed in Avignon where they built a grand palace: the ‘Popes Palace’ and they also had a summer residence at Châteauneuf-du-Pape. They planted vines to produce their wines. This wine, served at their table, was soon recognised as ‘The Pope’s Wine’.

History, fame, geographic proximity and the complementary nature of the wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Tavel, lead both wine classifications towards joint export promotion.

For Tavel and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, wine is a history of know-how in wine making, conviviality and sharing. The diversity of world cuisine allows the consumer to find perfect harmony in the colour, freshness and potency in these rosé, red and white wines.