Xavier Vignon : Arcane II La Papesse 2016

Characteristics and tasting tips for Xavier Vignon's Arcane II La Papesse 2016 cuvée

Tasting

Complexity and refinement define this red wine from the Rhône Valley with its fine tannins and silky touch.

Service

For optimal tasting, it is recommended to serve this wine at 15°C - 17°C.

Cellaring

This cuvée can be cellared until approximately 2035.

Food and wine pairings

This wine pairs ideally with saffron and mushroom risotto, satay tofu skewers, truffle and honey brie, a vegan terrine with chanterelles, hazelnuts, chestnuts and gingerbread.

The aromatic intensity and creaminess of a Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine

The estate

Oenologist Xavier Vignon has built an international reputation by providing expert advice to more than 200 estates and participating in the creation of the most prestigious wines of the Rhône Valley, especially in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. In 2002, he began to produce his own "Xavier" cuvées, blending the best "juices" from carefully selected parcels. Without any constraints of terroir or grape variety, Xavier Vignon creates his ideal wine: simple, modern, and above all, impressively good value for money. The 100% Xavier was born.

The wine

Arcane II La Papesse 2016 is a Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine by Xavier Vignon, made from old vines planted on cool terroirs in the north of the appellation. Composed of rolled pebbles and clays, the soils promote water drainage and natural heat management during the summer.

Vinification and ageing

A rigorous selection of berries is carried out before vinification in truncated vats (1/3), concrete vats (1/3) and stainless steel vats (1/3). Alcoholic and malolactic fermentation before ageing in amphorae, barrels, concrete vats, demi-muid and stainless steel vats. A portion of the wines (20%) is aged using the Vinarium technique (small 200-litre barrels immersed in wine, as for the Arcane Le Pape cuvée. The ageing extends over a period of 3 years.

Grape variety

Grenache (100%)