Introduction
The 2018 Domaine Roger Perrin Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a powerful yet refined expression from one of France’s most iconic wine regions. Known for their meticulous approach and use of traditional winemaking techniques, Domaine Roger Perrin has crafted a Châteauneuf-du-Pape that balances ripe fruit, spice, and earthy complexity. This vintage reflects the unique terroir of the Southern Rhône and highlights the elegance and depth that Châteauneuf-du-Pape is renowned for.

Terrior
Domaine Roger Perrin’s vineyards in Châteauneuf-du-Pape are planted on a mix of soils, including sandy loam, clay, and the iconic galets roulés (large round stones) that retain heat and contribute to the wine’s richness and concentration. The Mediterranean climate, with hot days and cool nights, allows the grapes to ripen fully while preserving freshness. This balance of sun and soil is key to the depth, structure, and complexity typical of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.

Appearance
Deep garnet with ruby highlights, showing the wine’s youth and concentration.

Nose
The nose is rich and complex, opening with aromas of black cherry, ripe plum, and blackcurrant. These primary fruit aromas are layered with secondary notes of black pepper, garrigue (wild Mediterranean herbs), and earthy hints of leather and tobacco. Subtle floral hints of dried violet and lavender add an elegant touch, along with a background of sweet spice from oak aging.

Palate
Full-bodied and robust, with a silky texture and well-integrated tannins. The palate features layers of dark fruit flavors, including blackberry, dark cherry, and blackcurrant, enhanced by savory notes of dried herbs, olive tapenade, and a touch of smoky minerality. A lively acidity balances the richness of the fruit, while the oak aging adds subtle flavors of vanilla, clove, and cocoa.

Finish
The finish is long, complex, and satisfying, with lingering notes of dark fruit, dried herbs, and a hint of spice, leaving a warm, earthy impression that reflects the wine’s Southern Rhône origins.

Overall Impression
The 2018 Domaine Roger Perrin Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a well-structured, beautifully balanced wine that captures the essence of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. With its layers of fruit, spice, and earth, this vintage offers depth and elegance, making it a versatile wine for pairing with hearty dishes like roasted meats, stews, or aged cheeses. While approachable now, it also has the potential to develop further complexity over the next 8-10 years.

Published Rankings
James Suckling Rating: 92
Robert Parker Rating: 91
Jeb Dunnuck Rating: 93

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 15%
Farming Practices: Conventional
Producer Name: Domaine Roger Perrin
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Grape Varietals: Predominantly Grenache, with Syrah, Mourvèdre, and small amounts of other Rhône varietals
Vintage: 2018
Wine Style: Red, Dry
Winemaking Techniques: Traditional fermentation with extended maceration for tannin extraction; aged in a combination of large oak foudres and smaller barrels to add structure and complexity without overpowering the fruit.
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork