# Château Le Pape 2018 (2018)

- **Producer:** Château Le Pape
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, black pepper, red plum, black cherry, black plum, cedar, cloves, chocolate, vanilla, leather, forest floor, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Château Le Pape 2018 is a red wine from the AOP Pessac-Léognan in Bordeaux, France. The estate, established in the 18th century, was acquired by Robert and Elisabeth Wilmers, owners of Château Haut-Bailly, in 2012. The 2018 vintage is notable as the first to be entirely produced by the Château Haut-Bailly winemaking team. The estate's vineyards were incorporated into Château Haut-Bailly starting with the 2021 vintage, marking 2021 as the final year for Château Le Pape as a distinct wine.

## Interesting facts

- Founded in the 18th century by a master sailmaker.
- 2018 was the first vintage fully made by the Château Haut-Bailly team.
- Vineyards were integrated into Château Haut-Bailly from the 2021 vintage onwards.
- Low yields in 2018 due to challenging weather.

## Food pairing

The wine's firm tannins and medium-plus body are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in red meat dishes, while its balanced acidity can cut through richness. Classic pairings like lamb and beef are elevated by the wine's structure, and richer poultry like duck also finds a harmonious partner.

## Wine making process

Château Le Pape 2018 underwent fermentation in temperature-controlled cement tanks or stainless steel vats, followed by malolactic fermentation in vat. The wine was subsequently aged for 12 to 15 months in French oak barrels, with new oak usage varying between 20% and 50%. Sustainable viticulture practices are a part of the estate's approach.