Leathery & Peppery
As at many family domaines with deep roots in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, vigneron Alexandre Favier was by his own account “raised in the vineyards”: Alexandre’s grandfather, Noël Sabon, is from one of the best known winemaking families in the region. Alexandre himself began his viticultural studies in Orange at the age of fifteen and passed the exams four years later in 2001. A year later (at age twenty!) he took over winemaking duties at the domaine when his father experienced health problems. Today, Domaine Chante Cigale is one of the most important family estates of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
This is one of the most iconic wines of the Domaine. This Vieilles Vignes can still be made today at the winery thanks to the hard-work of Alexandre's father and grandfather in the vineyards: Chante Cigale owns 20 hectares planted with vines older than 60 years-old. A blend of Grenache (80%), Syrah and Mourvèdre, this is a traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape with a peppery, leathery nose. The palate is dry with spices, more pepper and a hint of vanilla before a delicious, firm finish.
Try with traditional lamb or lentil and vegetable moussaka, and any rich hot-pot that heavily features ‘herbes de Provence’ or similar aromatic herbs.
