Xavier Vignon - Châteauneuf-du-Pape - Arcane La Papesse - Rouge - 2016

Wine:

Of very large volume, the 2016 red Châteauneuf-du-Pape Arcane La Papesse exudes incredible elegance with precious notes of spices, cedar, black fruit, and fresh leather. Perfectly combining power and finesse, it offers a finely-tuned mid-palate, generous and marked by fresh tannins, where seduction and smoothness always work in harmony. Impressive, this is a Châteauneuf-du-Pape to be enjoyed now with a hearty stew or to let age for another decade. Rated 94/100 by Parker.

Vinification:

Hand harvested and sorted berries. The grapes are harvested and vinified in three different containers: truncated cone vats, concrete vats and stainless steel vats. Following the malolactic fermentation in November 2016, the wine is aged in various containers such as amphora, barrel, concrete tank, demi-muid and stainless steel tank. This phase of maturation in "Vinarium" is an innovative technique, consisting of plunging small barrels of 200 liters inside larger barrels. This process is implemented on this wine from 2017 to 2020.

Color:

Deep dark red.

Nose:

Powerful and delicate with intense aromas of cherry and plum underlined by notes of leather, cedar and a touch of chocolate.

Palate:

The opening is straightforward and unfolds a silky wine with velvety tannins, which are well integrated into the complexity of its aromatic palate. A long and pleasant finish offers a real moment of pleasure.

Temperature:

Serve at 16 to 18°C.

Food and wine pairing:

Mushroom risotto, rack of lamb with dried herbs, chicken skewer with peppers, brie with truffles.

Cellar aging:

From now until 2031 and more for enthusiasts

International expert and key advisor to the greatest successes of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and its region, Xavier Vignon crafts his own cuvées with diabolical precision.


Noticed by the famous American critic Parker, this artisan of the Rhône Valley continues to expand his talent and explores all the most promising and highly rated terroirs.


A master blender and talented winemaker, Xavier Vignon has become a trusted name for enthusiasts who appreciate his precise, fresh, and vibrant wines. This insatiable explorer constantly reinvents the South and creates a style now praised by the most prominent critics.