Domaine Giraud Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020

93 POINTS: Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate
93 POINTS: Wine Spectator
92 POINTS: Jeb Dunnuck

Organic & Eco Cert

60-80% Grenache, 15-35% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre, 90% destemmed, 4-5 week vinification/maceration, pumping overs, some vat emptying/refilling, some manual cap punching, max of 30°C, aged concrete vat (Grenache) 3-10 year oak (Syrah) 12-14 months, then 4 months assembled in vat, unfiltered, 15,000 b

“A blend of 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 5% Mourvèdre sourced from several different parcels around the village, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape is full-bodied and fleshy, yet also airy and light on its feet, silky and elegant. Unlike the 2019, this is more red-fruited and cherry-driven. The Grenache and Mourvèdre mature in concrete tanks, while the Syrah is in barriques.”
— 93 Points, Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate

“Perfumed and floral, with alluring high-toned cherry pie and raspberry tart interwoven with warm earth, licorice root and a refined iron mineral streak. The structure sneaks up on the palate, cleaning up the finish and driving good length. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2032.”
— 93 Points, Wine Spectator

“Leading off the 2020 Châteauneuf du Papes, the 2020 Châteauneuf du Pape from Giraud is 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah, and 5% Mourvedre. It shows the pure, supple, charming style of the vintage perfectly and is medium to full-bodied, has soft tannins, lots of darker berry fruits, notes of sappy garrigue and pepper, and outstanding length. A quintessential Châteauneuf du Pape, it will continue drinking well for 10-12 years.”
— 92 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

Most people would consider the 50–80 year vines that make this wines old vines, but to Francois and Marie this is just their entry-level Châteauneuf. After taking on the Domain from their parents they have been carving out a reputation for producing some of the most elegant and precise wines in this region. This wine is full-bodied, ripe, sexy and seamless. It has power and structure, with succulent ripe tannins and a wonderful intensity, but at the same time retains elegance and levity.