CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE

Origins of the cuvée

BONUS PASSUS
Each cuvée reveals a chapter in the history of this prestigious site or its region.
Around 1278, the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem set up a house and built a fortified commandery there, naming the site Bonus Passus. From then on, they welcomed travellers and ensured ‘safe passage’ across the Durance river.
This fortress became a strategic site, securing Avignon and the surrounding area.

Grape varietals

Mainly Grenache Noir along with Syrah and Mourvèdre.

Vinification and maturing

Co-fermentation of different grape varieties. Physical extractions using devatting and pumping over techniques at the beginning of fermentation give way to the traditional Rhone Valley method, which consists of submerging the pomace cap at the end of fermentation. This also highlights each varietal’s charateristics. A veritable infusion that softens the tannins and increases the wine’s roundness while preserving the flavours of ripe red fruit. Maceration lasted 3 weeks.

Tasting notes

Deep garnet with purple hints

A complex aromatic palette with notes of Morello cherry in brandy, complemented by hints of light tobacco and sweet spices.Very silky texture with mouthful flavours of ripe plum and prune balanced by a slight freshness on the finish.

Food and wine pairing

Open one hour before serving between 13-15°C/56-59°F. It pairs well with meats in sauce, such as stews or coq au vin, and game. Duck confit, beef wellington or tasty vegetarian cuisine.

Appellation

In the 14th century the Papacy moved in Avignon and chose the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape as a summer residence where they promoted the culture of the vines.
In 1936, Châteauneuf-du-Pape became France’s very first wine AOC. Today, its 3,200ha vineyard extends over five communes and is the most prestigious of the southern Rhône appellations.

The wines owe their unique character to the region’s distinct conditions: there are the round red and cream-colored stones -«galets» - left in the soil by ancient Alpine glaciers. The famous Mistral wind helps keep vines healthy.

The selected vines for ‘Bonus Passus’ surround the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and are planted in sandstone and sand-based soils on south/south-east facing slopes.
An exceptional terroir for a remarkable expression of Grenache noir, with great finesse and generosity.