Le Clos du Caillou, Domaine de Panisse, Châteauneuf-du-Pâpe Rouge, Le Mas, Southern Rhône, France, 2022

Producer Profile

The quality of the estate's wines has greatly progressed over the past couple of decades and are often recognised as one of the best in the appellation. The unsung hero in Le Clos du Caillou's portfolio is the ‘Bouquet des Garrigues’: with a feel and style of Châteauneuf du Pape, it is not a straightforward Côtes du Rhône by any means.

Sylvie Vacheron, helped by the gifted Bruno Gaspard, is producing rich and very expressive Châteauneuf du Pape cuvées. The quality of the estate's wines has greatly progressed over the past couple of decades and are often recognised as one of the best in the appellation. The unsung hero in Le Clos du Caillou's portfolio is the ‘Bouquet des Garrigues’: with a feel and style of Châteauneuf du Pape, it is not a straightforward Côtes du Rhône by any means.

Viticulture

Sourced from old vines rooted in classic galets roulés (rounded stones) over clay-limestone soils, promoting excellent drainage and heat retention. The estate follows sustainable practices, with an emphasis on biodiversity and hand harvesting to protect the integrity of the fruit.

Winemaking

Fermented with native yeasts in concrete vats, followed by ageing in a combination of large foudres and used French oak barrels for 12–18 months, enhancing structure while preserving the wine’s Mediterranean character.

Tasting Note

Generous and structured, ‘Le Mas’ opens with deep aromas of black cherry, blackberry compote, and dried herbs, complemented by notes of liquorice, crushed pepper, and a whisper of garrigue. The palate is rich and mouthfilling, with firm yet ripe tannins, balanced freshness, and a long, savoury finish.

Food Matching

Roast venison with blackberry jus, slow-cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary, or aubergine parmigiana.

Awards