La Ferme du Mont Capelan Châteauneuf du Pape

The La Ferme du Mont Capelan Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2017 is a medium to full-bodied wine, made with 80% Grenache grapes. The balance is made up of Syrah and Mourvedre grapes. It has an ABV of 14.5%, and has a beautiful red color to it.

It’s floral on the nose, with notes of red and black berries, and black licorice, and hints of olives, truffles, and cocoa. On the palate, it’s beautifully silky and fresh, with notes of chocolate and fruit toward the back, and a persistent finish.

This is red wine that is great to pair with grilled meats, especially lamb. Try the La Ferme du Mont Capelan Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2017 with a grilled lamb with pepper sauce, or rack of lamb with thyme. Round it all out with some candied vegetables, or truffle mashed potatoes.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape means “The Pope’s new castle” in French, and this appellation has some of the most acclaimed wines throughout the country. Both the name and its association with wine has all to do with Pope Clement V. The aforementioned Pope was Archbishop of Bordeaux, and a lover of Bordeaux wines. When he transferred the papacy to Avignon, he confirmed that Avignon had great potential for winemaking, and thus, the wines produced in this region were known as “Le Vin de Pape,” or “The Pope’s Wine.” It was eventually renamed and referred to as “Châteauneuf-du-Pape.”