2021 Domaine du Pegau 'Cuvée Reservée' Châteauneuf-du-Pape Southern Rhone

Winemaker’s Notes: Dark red with a purple body. Aromas of black ripe fruits like morello cherries and raspberries, juniper berries, black pepper and garrigue. After several years of ageing, the aromas will be characterized by plums, dried stone fruits, leather, fur, and sandalwood. The palate is round, rich and powerful with soft tannins. With time, it will evolve into a more complex and spicy wine.

Try pairing this wine with red grilled meat, lamb shoulder with thyme and dishes of tapas and curry.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


James Suckling - "This has so much power and meaty depth for the 2021 vintage, also stacks of healthy tannins that give it great intensity at the very long and complete finish. It’s packed with licorice, tar and stony character that makes it hard to pull yourself away from its compelling hold. Drinkable now, but best from 2025."


Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "Scents of leather, violets, cherries and strawberries mark the nose of the 2021 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Réservée, tasted as a representative assemblage from several foudres. Medium to full-bodied, it's silky but firm, with a long, slightly tannic finish. As always when visiting Laurence Feraud, there are multiple cuvées and appellations to sample. In this write-up, I've concentrated on the home estate's wines from Chateauneuf du Pape, but readers shouldn't overlook the Côte du Rhône wines from the sister property, Château du Pegau, the négociant offerings under the Selection Laurence Feraud label, or her children's (Justine and Maxim) newly acquired, certified organic estate, Domaine Porte Rouge. According to Feraud, with 2021, "We're back to an old style of vintage. For me, Châteauneuf du Pape is spicy, a bit rustic but not a big, fat, jammy wine. (92-94pts)"


Vinous - "The 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée is slightly reductive. After some time in the glass, it unveils predominantly red fruit aromatics, dried herbs and a dash of white pepper. Not as powerful as either the 2020 or 2019, but packed with ample finesse and beautifully layered. It is a full-bodied, neatly structured offering with a bright finish. (92-94pts)"