Châteauneuf-du-Pape's Southern Warmth

The season for big reds is upon us, and all thoughts turn to the south of France. From Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the wonderful wines based around the Grenache variety offer compelling food pairing opportunities and a general open-hearted appeal. Rich, heady but balanced by a dusty, herbal twang, these are more extroverted alternatives to buttoned-up Bordeaux or whimsical Burgundy.

We always keep a range of the best producers in stock, including those with bottle age. With the years, Châteauneuf develops a gamey profile, making it yet more appealing with stews or the local cassoulet. We lead off with Clos des Papes, who have so much confidence in their wines, perhaps thanks to the tiny yields they insist on, that they only make a single red wine. And wonderful it is too.

Beaucastel has a slightly different profile thanks to the outsized presence of Mourvèdre in the blend, a variety that offers dryness, structure and a savory finish to these usually more sweeter tasting styles. Isabel Ferrando and her Saint Prefert wines are modern classics; Bonneau and Rayas – the originals. Try a selection and enjoy the warm embrace of these wonderful and distinctive wines.