Château Rayas - Pignan 2009
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape - 75cl
Color: Red |
Region: Rhône |
Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape |
Producer: Château Rayas |
Vintage: 2009 |
Format: 75cl |
The Château Rayas is famous among French fine wines, often regarded as the best Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Founded by Louis Reynaud in the 1920s, this estate stands out with innovative practices within the legendary appellation. Unlike local traditions, a portion of the vineyards faces north to avoid excessive summer heat, while pine forests surround the estate to cool the vines. Louis focused on a single grape variety, grenache, despite thirteen being permitted. His son Jacques inherited the estate and maintained quality using traditional techniques, though described as unconventional and even eccentric. Today, Louis's nephew, Emmanuel Reynaud, manages the operation
Pignan is a single vineyard cuvée, sourced from vines adjacent to Château Rayas. The soil is fairly typical for the AOC, although slightly richer in clay. It's a wine of finesse, delicacy, and ample complexity.