Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of France’s most iconic reds and a favourite among Aussies who love bold, generous wines with plenty of character. From the southern Rhône, it’s usually Grenache-led, blended with Syrah, Mourvèdre and up to 10 others. You’ll get ripe red and black fruits, peppery spice, dried herbs, and a savoury, earthy edge, big on flavour but still balanced.

The hallmark is richness and warmth, with vinos often sitting around 14–15% alcohol, but the best examples carry their weight with freshness and structure. They’re brilliant with roast lamb, slow-cooked meats, or anything with smoky, herbal flavour. There’s also a smaller amount of white Châteauneuf kicking around withcreamy, textural and super food-friendly.

For Australians who enjoy gutsy reds with old-world complexity, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is hard to beat. It’s like a luxe version of a GSM, robust, layered, and perfect for the cellar or the table.