# Le Grand Pompée (2021)

- **Producer:** Paul Jaboulet Aîné
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Syrah
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, blackcurrant, redcurrant, liquorice, black pepper, smoke

## About this wine

Le Grand Pompée 2021 is a 100% Syrah from the Saint-Joseph AOC in France's Northern Rhône Valley, produced by the historic Paul Jaboulet Aîné estate. The wine's name is a literary tribute, referencing a verse by Victor Hugo. The Saint-Joseph appellation is known for its Syrah grown on granitic soils, contributing to the wine's distinct character. Paul Jaboulet Aîné, established in 1834, is now led by winemaker Caroline Frey, who focuses on sustainable viticulture and expressing the unique terroir of each vineyard. The estate is committed to rigorous vineyard management and winemaking to achieve excellence.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Le Grand Pompée' is inspired by Victor Hugo's 'Légende des siècles'.
- Saint-Joseph wines were favored by French royalty in the 16th century.
- The vineyard soils are a mix of schist and gneiss on a granite base.
- The vines range in age from 1989 to 2019.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ tannins and structure complement the richness of proteins like lamb and beef, while its savory notes and peppery hints harmonize with herbs and earthy flavors. The acidity cuts through richer dishes, cleansing the palate.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Le Grand Pompée begins with hand-harvested and carefully sorted Syrah grapes. Vinification is traditional, featuring a three-week maceration period with daily pump-overs to enhance extraction. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes 12 months of aging in French truncated cone vats. This method is chosen to maintain the wine's fruit purity and develop its structure. The producer, Paul Jaboulet Aîné, is committed to sustainable agriculture, with ongoing efforts towards organic and biodynamic practices across its vineyards.