Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, Les Cailloux Red, André Brunel, 2022

For three generations, Domaine André Brunel has been a benchmark for quality in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with their flagship “Les Cailloux” cuvée sourced from the esteemed, galet-strewn plateau of La Crau. These ancient, heat-retaining stones are emblematic of the appellation, forcing the vines to dig deep roots and imbuing the wine with a unique minerality and powerful structure. This vintage masterfully balances this robust terroir with a characteristic elegance.

This wine presents a deep, opaque garnet hue. The nose is complex and inviting, evolving from a core of macrated black cherry and wild raspberry to layers of espresso, lavender, and warm spices. On the palate, it is full-bodied and richly textured, revealing a concentrated blend of dark fruit and earthy garrigue notes. Despite its power, it remains remarkably refined, with polished, silky tannins and a vibrant acidity that carries the wine to a long, persistent, and nuanced finish.

This is a quintessential wine for grand cuisine. It pairs exquisitely with herb-crusted lamb, daube of wild boar, or truffle-infused dishes. Its complexity also allows it to stand up to the most robust aged cheeses, such as a mature Mimolette or a classic Comté.