At a glance

Producer

Domaine de la Mordoree

Region

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône Valley, France

Grape variety

Predominantly Grenache, with Mourvèdre and Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60-$80

Tasting profile

Ripe black cherries, blackberries, garrigue herbs, pepper, leather, and earthy mineral notes with firm tannic grip

Evolution: Develops tertiary notes of leather, truffle, forest floor, and smoky complexity over the next 10+ years

At peak: Balanced integration of fruit and nuanced savory complexity with silky tannins and elegant long finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus acidity providing freshness

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

High, typically around 14.5%-15%

Aging potential

20+ years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2042

Optimal window

2024 to 2045

Current status

Young but approachable with some decanting; early drinking possible

Current condition

The 2017 vintage shows concentrated fruit and firm tannins, needing 1-3 years to soften fully

This classic Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Domaine de la Mordoree in vintage 2017 has a robust tannic backbone and acidity structure ideal for long-term aging. The 2017 vintage in the southern Rhône was excellent, providing ripe fruit but with freshness and balance, contributing to a prolonged drinking window. Extended aging allows the wine to develop complexity while softening tannins for a harmonious profile.

Food pairing

Rich roasted meats such as lamb or beef, game dishes, hearty stews, and aged hard cheeses like Comté or Gruyère complement this wine beautifully.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow aromas to fully express, especially since the wine is still young

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of cover crops, minimal herbicide application, solar panels installed at winery, water recycling systems employed

Domaine de la Mordoree invests in sustainable organic viticulture, focusing on soil health and biodiversity. Energy efficiency and water conservation are integral at their estate, though not fully biodynamic certified. Their export footprint is typical for Rhône wines shipped internationally, mitigated by lightweight packaging. Overall, the estate demonstrates strong commitment to sustainability in balance with producing premium wines.