Domaine La Manarine Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2019

Rhone, France 

Domaine la Manarine Chateauneuf-du-Pape Pied de Baud is a beautiful example of this complex red wine from the Rhone. Named for the village just north of Avignon, Chateauneuf-du-Pape (new castle of the Pope) is the place where Pope John XXII first built a summer residence and planted vineyards back in the 14th century.  Domaine la Manarine was created by Gilles Gasq in April 2001. The winery and majority of his vineyards are located within the commune of Travaillan, on a splendid plateau northeast of Orange in the southern Rhone. Gilles is a talented vigneron who has honed his skills working as an assistant to Paul Jeune, the proprietor of Domaine Monpertuis in Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Domaine La Manarine practices organic viticulture. Work in the cellar is minimal with little intervention. 

Comprised of 100% Grenache with an average age of 45 years, from adjacent parcels totaling 1.5 hectare. While they are nestled side by side, the two parcels are distinctly different: “Pied de Baud” has a sandy based soil, while “Cabrières” is stonier, riddled with the large galet stones for which Châteauneuf-du-Pape is known. Situated in the northern reaches of the appellation, these two sites are much cooler than the rest of the appellation, making a wine that is fresher and considerably less tannic. The grapes for this wine are partially destemmed (about 50%) and are fermented in stainless steel tanks for one month and aged in a combination of stainless steel and large oak barrels for 18 months before being assembled and bottled.

Enjoy La Manarine Chateauneuf-du-Pape Pied de Baud over the next 12-15 years with daube Provencal (slow-cooked beef), roast chicken, grilled mushrooms, pastas, and cheeses.