Southern Rhone Chateauneuf du Pape

Question 1

When did Chateauneuf du Pape gain AOC (P) status?

Answer 1

May 15 1936. The first AOC in France

Question 2

What department is Chateauneuf du Pape in?

Answer 2

Vaucluse

Question 3

Name the communes of production in Chateauneuf du Pape

Answer 3

Chateauneuf du Pape
Orange
Bedarrides
Courthezon
Sorgues

Question 4

What wines styles and grape varieties are allowed in Chateauneuf du Pape?

Answer 4

Blanc and Rouge from:
Grenache (Noir, Gris and Blanc)
Mourvèdre, 
Syrah, 
Cinsault,
Counoise, 
Bourboulenc, 
Roussanne, 
Brun Argenté (Vaccarèse), 
Clairette, 
Clairette Rosé, 
Muscardin, 
Picardan, 
Piquepoul (Noir, Gris and Blanc), 
Terret Noir
* For red wines, all varieties are permitted, but white and red musts need to be blended prior to vinification

Question 5

What is the minimum potential alcohol for Chateauneuf du Pape?

Answer 5

12.5%

Question 6

What percentage of harvested grapes must be used for table wine or discarded (râpé)?

Answer 6

2%

Question 7

What is le râpé?

Answer 7

A process that mandates that growers declassify or discard 2% of harvested grapes. This serves as a safeguard against underripeness.

Question 8

Who released the first estate bottled Chateauneuf du Pape? In what year?

Answer 8

Chateau La Nerthe in 1785

Question 9

How many hecatares under vine does Chateauneuf du Pape have?

Answer 9

Over 3000 ha

Question 10

What is the soil type in Chateauneuf du Pape?

Answer 10

the soil of the appellation is vastly varied beyond the iconic galets; distinct pockets of alluvial sediment exist for gravel, calcareous clay, and sand.

Question 11

What is the main white grape in Chateau Beaucastel’s Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc

Answer 11

Rousanne

Question 12

What are the grape varieties used in Chateau Rayas Blanc?

Answer 12

Majority Grenache Blanc with some Clairette