At a glance

Producer

Clos du Mont-Olivet

Region

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France

Grape variety

Grenache-based blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, others)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50 - $65

Tasting profile

Fresh red and black fruits (cherry, raspberry, blackberry), with hints of garrigue, lavender, and savory spices.

Evolution: Fruit will soften, spice and earth notes will deepen, tertiary flavors such as leather and truffle will develop over the next 8-12 years.

At peak: Complex tertiary aromas, silky tannins, and a harmonious balance between fruit, earth, and mineral characteristics.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balanced

Tannins

Medium to firm, fine-grained

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

15+ years for optimal complexity

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2052

Optimal window

2026 to 2055

Current status

Approaching maturity but still youthful

Current condition

The wine is currently showing primary fruit and nice structure but benefits from additional bottle aging.

The wine's balance of ripe grenache fruit, freshness from acidity, and structured tannins from Syrah and Mourvèdre allow it to develop complexity well beyond a decade, with primary fruit evolving into layered secondary and tertiary nuances typical of top Châteauneuf-du-Pape from excellent vintages like 2020.

Food pairing

Ideal with lamb or beef stews, grilled game, roasted root vegetables, and aged hard cheeses such as Comté or aged Gouda.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow the wine to open and reveal its complex aromas and soften the tannins.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Clos du Mont-Olivet employs organic principles including minimal use of chemical inputs, cover cropping, and manual harvest to reduce soil erosion. Water conservation through modern irrigation techniques and energy-saving cellaring equipment is practiced.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, Clos du Mont-Olivet closely adheres to sustainable viticulture practices focusing on biodiversity, soil health, and reduced chemical use. Their moderate energy consumption and more local-focused distribution reduce overall environmental impact compared to large commercial operations.