Our domaine
at Châteauneuf-du-Pape
history
The Mestre family is one of the older of Chateauneuf, wine grower since four generations : Marius, Jean, Jacques and now, Christophe
Jean was cultivating 12 hectares. Jacques was supposed to become baker, but, thanks to a flour allergy, he started working with his father.
In 1966, he married Gabrielle MICHEL and over the years, thanks to them, the estate has been growing
Now, Christophe heads a 17 hectares estate. He’s passionate about his work, the vineyard and the wine. He is involved in the production of fine wine, respecting traditions, authenticity and environment.
Know-Own
Chateauneuf-du-Pape winemakers were the first to draft and apply strict production rules on their appellation. One of these rules is the maximum yield of 35 hl / ha, one of the lowest in France. Hence, our small parcels produce highly-concentrated wines, a promise of longevity
Assembled in our cellar, aged in oak barrels, our wines are made both with the highest respect of traditions and the best of modern vinification methods.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Appellation
Chateauneuf du Pape is known for its wines around the world. Behind this prestigious name are hidden numerous riches, wine of course but also historical and cultural.
It is the popes who first revealed the « terroir » of Chateauneuf-du-Pape when they settled in Avignon in the XIV° century. The wine became the « Vin des Papes » and was sought after by the finest European courts.
Strong assets to achieve excellence
The « terroir » : Defined between 1924 an 1929, the appellation covers 3200 hectares. On the West, the soil is made up of limestone and on the East, of sandy hillsides and shingles which store and radiate heat during the night. The subsoil is made up of red clay.
The Mediterranean climate : Thanks to the « mistral » (north wind) the vineyard gets a lot of sunshine. The wind also reduce the rainfall and its bad effects.
The thirteen grape varieties : The only grape varieties allowed are Grenache Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Clairette, Vaccarèse, Bourboulenc, Roussanne, Counoise, Muscardin, Picpoul, Picardan and Terret noir, each one bringing its own characteristics: color, structure, fragrance, freshness and longevity.
