2021 Domaine Mayard Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France

Technically a new domaine in Chteauneuf but from a historic family, , Domaine Mayard is quickly making a name for itself to those in the know about the Southern Rhne. Winemakers Arthur and Hugo are the sixth generation of Mayard winemakers, now in charge of this estate following the separation of the Mayard familys vineyards into several properties. This is their inaugural vintage.

80% Grenache. 10% Cinsault, 10% Mourvdre from From lieu-dit le Grand Coulet in Sorgues, lieu-dit la Crau in at the heart of the appellation in the commune of Chteauneuf, and Le Pointu in the Courthezon woods. Grapes are hand harvested, sorted in the vineyard and also in the cellar. Native yeast fermentation and vatting for 4-5 weeks. Aged in concrete tanks and bottled 18 months after harvest. Interestingly, Co2 is captured and reintroudced to the tank during fermentation. The final wine is a huge success and counter to what we expect in Chteauneuf – sinewy, red fruited with incredible drive.