Clos de l’Oratoire des Papes was named in tribute to the Popes who chose this region for their summer residence. It was established in the 19th century and enjoyed a real boom from the start of the 1920s under the Amouroux family. In 2000, after a period of decline, the property was taken over by the Ogier group, also proprietors of Caves des Papes, and has recovered its prestige. Clos de l’Oratoire des Papes’ most distinctive attribute is the exceptional diversity of its soils. The vines are planted on parcels comprised of limestone, safre and rolled pebbles mixed with red clay. The combination of an exceptional terroir and a perfect aspect for the vines (sun and the winds of the mistral) make for a powerful and very characteristic wine.
Ever since 1926, this Châteauneuf-du-Pape has been produced with the same label made by the Amouroux family. The Cinsault, Grenache Noir and Syrah grapes come from terraces of pudding stones, red clays and limestone and sandstone/loam chips. These grapes have undergone a long vatting and complex vinification process. Elevage lasts for one year in 30-year-old oak casks. This well-balanced wine opens into notes reminiscent of the Mediterranean: scrubland, spices and ripe fruit. The same ripe (even stewed) fruits reappear on the palate, enhanced with a minty finish. A wine that is easy to keep and goes down a treat with a Tournedos Rossini steak dish.
