# Cuvée Du Vatican (2024)

- **Producer:** Jean-Marc Diffonty
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €40
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black fruit, red fruit, spice, plum, licorice, oak, dried fruit, earth, leather

## About this wine

Cuvée du Vatican is a distinguished red wine from the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation in France's Southern Rhône Valley, produced by Jean-Marc Diffonty. The Diffonty family's winemaking heritage dates back to the 17th century, and the 'Cuvée du Vatican' label, established in 1958, carries a unique historical connection to the Vatican, with an annual tradition of gifting wine to the Pope. The wine is a sister cuvée to Château Sixtine, known for its powerful yet elegant profile. The appellation's terroir, featuring the iconic 'galets roulés' and diverse soils under a warm climate, is crucial to the wine's character. The 2024 vintage faced challenges like mildew and coulure, potentially influencing the blend towards more Syrah and Mourvèdre, aiming for intense color and refined tannins.

## Interesting facts

- The 'Cuvée du Vatican' label was launched with the blessing of the Pope.
- The Diffonty family has been making wine since the 17th century.
- A case of wine is traditionally sent to the Vatican each year.
- The estate was renamed Château Sixtine in 2010.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, while its complex fruit and spice notes can echo or contrast with robust flavors in dishes. Its structure can stand up to hearty preparations and rich sauces.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Cuvée du Vatican involves meticulous vineyard management aimed at achieving concentrated fruit. Grapes are completely destemmed before fermentation, which takes place in traditional wooden and stainless-steel vats. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes approximately 12 months of aging in large oak casks known as foudres. This approach emphasizes the expression of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape terroir and the development of a wine with both power and refinement.