Mont Redon Chateauneuf Du Pape 2021
The Wine
The wine consists of 60% Grenache Noir, 30% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre, and 2% a mix of Cinsault, Counoise, Muscardin, and Vaccarèse. It is hand-harvested and completely destemmed prior to a fermentation period of 15 to 20 days, during which the cap is plunged as needed. Post-malolactic fermentation, a stringent selection process ensures only batches meeting the Estate's quality standards are kept, while the rest are sold off in bulk. The chosen batches are then aged for 12 months, split between barrels and stainless steel tanks. A subsequent selection is made, with inferior batches once again sold in bulk. The final blend is compiled in a tank and aged for an additional 6 months before bottling, followed by 4 to 6 months of bottle maturation prior to being ready for shipping.
In short, 2021 exudes grace and freshness, complemented by widespread tannin quality, good structure and sufficient but not excessive concentration. When talking to winemakers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, I often sense that some hold a more reserved opinion of wines produced from less opulent years compared to more powerful and flamboyant vintages such as 2019. But au contraire: the 2021 reds have broad appeal. The distinctive feature of 2021 is the abundance of bright acidity, neatly complementing flavor concentration, which gives the wines a delightful sense of elegance and freshness. The generally lower alcohol levels further contribute to their refined character.
Vinous Media, June 2023
Bottled in June of this year, the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape checks in as 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah, and the rest Mourvèdre and other assorted varieties. It's another Burgundian-styled wine from this vintage with lots darker berries, redcurrants, pepper, and Provençal garrigue that carry to a medium-bodied supple, elegant, layered Châteauneuf revealing ripe tannins, beautiful balance, and outstanding length. It's a terrific success in the vintage.’ 92 points, Jeb Dunnuck, October 2023
‘(vat/casks) full red; the bouquet shows discreet sunshine, therefore a trim sweetness, with a centre of black berry jam, a hint of blue fruit, salting and oak. The palate bears good quality fruit, dark berries with a fine freshness throughout, is well poised and the juice sustains well into the aftertaste. It’s a busy wine. The tarry, still exerted, oaked finish will ease within, drink from 2025. 2045-47 Oct 2022’ John Livingstone-Learmonth. drinkrhone.com, October 2022
The Details
Variety - Grenache, Shiraz, Mouvedere
Country - France
Region - Southern Rhone
Sub Region - Chateauneuf Du Pape
Extra - Cork
Year - 2021
Volume - 750ml
