Diffonty Cuvée du Vatican

A classic Châteauneuf-du-Pape with the weight and spice for which the southern Rhône Valley is known — yet surprisingly accessible.

Winery & Origin: Jean-Marc Diffonty manages his sites in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOP appellation, one of the most renowned red wine regions in France. The characteristic galets roulés — the round pebbles that store the heat of the day and release it to the vines at night — decisively shape the style and ripeness of the grapes.

In the glass: Dark ruby red. On the nose, cherry liqueur, pickled plums, and a clear pepper tone that the Grenache portion typically brings. Plus tobacco and dried herbs of the garrigue. On the palate, full-bodied, with velvety tannin and a warm, spicy length.

Recommendation: Decant for at least 30 minutes. Serving temperature 16–18 °C. Pairs with leg of lamb with rosemary, wild boar ragout, or mature cheese like Ossau-Iraty.