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Introduction
The 2021 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an iconic wine from one of the most esteemed estates in the Southern Rhône Valley. Known for its traditional winemaking techniques and exceptional terroir, Château de Beaucastel produces Châteauneuf-du-Pape that is both powerful and refined. The 2021 vintage highlights the elegance and complexity that this prestigious appellation can achieve, combining a diverse blend of Rhône varietals to create a wine of remarkable depth and aging potential.

Terrior
Château de Beaucastel’s vineyards are located in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where the terroir is characterized by large, round galets (river stones) that retain heat and promote even ripening. The clay-limestone soils provide excellent drainage, encouraging the vines to develop deep roots. The Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and the cooling influence of the Mistral wind, helps to preserve acidity and enhance aromatic intensity. These conditions yield wines with both richness and balance, expressing the unique character of the Rhône Valley.

Appearance
Deep ruby with garnet reflections, indicating concentration and maturity potential. The wine is clear and bright with medium-high viscosity, suggesting both structure and intensity.

Nose
The nose is complex and expressive, with aromas of black cherry, plum, and raspberry, intertwined with notes of garrigue (wild herbs), lavender, and black pepper. Subtle hints of leather, smoked meat, and truffle add depth, along with an undertone of graphite and earthiness that reflects the terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Palate
Full-bodied and layered, the palate offers a medley of red and dark fruit flavors, including blackberry, cherry, and blackcurrant, balanced by savory elements of black olive, rosemary, and a hint of smoked herbs. The tannins are firm and well-integrated, providing a structured backbone, while a vibrant acidity keeps the wine lively and fresh. Notes of licorice, dark chocolate, and spice from the oak aging add complexity, enhancing the wine’s depth and character.

Finish
Long, lingering, and balanced, with persistent flavors of red fruit, herbs, and a touch of minerality. The finish showcases the wine’s refined tannins and harmonious acidity, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and power.

Overall Impression
The 2021 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a beautifully structured and complex wine that captures the essence of the Southern Rhône Valley. With its intricate layers of fruit, herbs, and earth, this wine is a testament to the Beaucastel family’s commitment to quality and tradition. Enjoyable now with decanting, it has the structure and depth to age gracefully over the next two decades. Perfect for pairing with lamb, roasted duck, or aged cheeses, this is a wine for special occasions and collectors alike.

Published Rankings
Wine Enthusiast Rating: 95
James Suckling Rating: 96
Robert Parker Rating: 96
Vinous Rating: 94
Jeb Dunnuck Rating: 97
Decanter Ranking: 95
Wine Spectator: 95
Wine Enthusiast: 95

Published Awards and Recognition
Awarded a Gold Medal at the 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards; named "Top Rhône Valley Wine" by Wine Spectator; featured in Robert Parker’s "Best Wines of the Rhône."

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Organic and biodynamic
Producer Name: Château de Beaucastel
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhône Valley
Grape Varietals: A blend of all 13 permitted Châteauneuf-du-Pape varietals, primarily Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Counoise
Vintage: 2021
Wine Style: Dry Red
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented with native yeasts in traditional wooden vats; aged in a combination of large oak foudres and concrete tanks to preserve freshness and enhance complexity
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork