Le Mourvèdre
A Pillar of the Great Wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
A quintessential Mediterranean grape, Mourvèdre contributes structure, aromatic complexity, and a formidable aging potential to the wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. At Domaine Berthet-Rayne, this noble grape expresses itself with power and elegance, providing depth and length to our Tradition Rouge, Les Cigalons, Oak-Aged, and Cuvée Cadiac cuvées.
A Demanding Grape That Reveals the Great Terroirs
Although less prevalent than Grenache in the appellation, Mourvèdre finds ideal conditions here to express its full potential. It particularly thrives in clay-limestone soils scattered with rolled pebbles that store solar heat, enabling it to reach optimal maturity. At Berthet-Rayne, our Mourvèdre vines, aged 30 to 50 years, are planted in the terroirs of Chapouin and Coudoulet.
Mourvèdre is a vigorous but late-ripening and demanding grape. Pruning is kept short to control yields and enhance concentration. Sensitive to drought, it benefits from the hot and dry climate of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to accumulate the precious aromatic compounds and tannins that give it its unique character.
A Powerful and Aromatic Grape
In our Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wines, Mourvèdre is the ideal partner for Grenache and Syrah. It brings structure, tannic power, and complex aromas of black fruits, spices, and leather that develop beautifully with aging. Its combination with other grapes results in wines of great depth that will improve if left to age for a few years in the cellar.
Mourvèdre constitutes 20% of our Tradition Rouge cuvée. Harvested at peak maturity, it is carefully vinified to preserve its fruit and tannins. Aging in oak barrels adds additional structure and refines the aromatic palette.
Our prestige cuvée, Les Cigalons, highlights Mourvèdre, comprising 30% of the blend alongside Grenache. The wine is distinguished by its deep color, intense aromas of black fruits, spices, and licorice, and its powerful, velvety palate.
The Oak-Aged cuvée prominently features Mourvèdre at 30% of the blend. Aged 15 months in oak barrels, the wine is characterized by its complex bouquet of ripe fruits, spices, and animal notes, its dense structure, and its integrated tannins.
Finally, the exclusive Cuvée Cadiac, produced only in great vintages, allows Mourvèdre to shine at 50%. Crafted from specific parcels and aged 18 months in oak barrels, this exceptional cuvée stands out for its extreme concentration, highly complex aromatic palette, and outstanding aging potential.
