2018 Mayard Chateauneuf-du-Pape Clos du Calvaire

Rhone, France

Jeb Dunnuck 89-90 points!

Mayard Chateauneuf-du-Pape Clos du Calvaire is a beautiful example of this complex red blend 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. Vignobles Mayard is a 5th-generation estate run by Françoise Roumieux, along with her sister Béatrice, and brother Didier. Their family estate is comprised of 40 separate parcels scattered throughout the appellation. The largest pieces are located in the south of the appellation and the northeastern sub-zone of La Crau.

“Kirsch, wild strawberries, peppery spice, and incense notes all emerge from the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Clos Du Calvaire, a medium-bodied, juicy, lively wine from this estate. Based on 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah, and the rest Cinsault and Mourvèdre, brought up all in concrete tanks, this cuvée comes from the younger vines of the estate, which is located in the southeastern part of the appellation.”—Jeb Dunnuck, 89-90 points!

Mayard Chateauneuf-du-Pape Clos du Calvaire is dark ruby red in color with a complex bouquet of raspberries, cassis, vanilla, spice, and violets. Full-bodied with moderate acidity and soft tannins, this red offers flavors of jammy red fruit, vanilla, garrigue, and hints of truffles. The blend is from 40- to 50-year-old vines, aged in neutral oak foudres and cement tanks. It is beautifully balanced with a rich, perfumed finish.

Enjoy Mayard Chateauneuf-du-Pape Clos du Calvaire over the next 10-12 years with daube Provencal (slow-cooked beef), roast chicken, grilled mushrooms, pastas, and cheeses.