2020 E Guigal Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone

Charming and enveloping, the 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Guigal is a true classic of the vintage, marrying power with elegance. It wafts from the glass with aromas of dark cherries, mulberries, iris and spring flowers. Medium- to full-bodied, round and fleshy, it’s built around a sweet core of fruit framed by velvety tannins, concluding with a long, graceful and gently ethereal finish. This is a beautifully balanced wine that will age gracefully over the next decade and beyond.

92+ points robertparker.com

I also loved the 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape, a ripe, perfumed, medium to full-bodied effort that stays firmly planted in the more elegant style of the vintage. Ripe red and black fruits (raspberries, strawberries), garrigue, and peppery notes define the aromatics, and it has beautiful tannins as well as outstanding length. It too will evolve for 10-15 years.

93 points jebdunnuck.com

From the sun drenched vineyards of the southern Rhône, E Guigal Châteauneuf du Pape reflects both the power of the appellation and the precision that has made the Guigal name one of the most respected in French wine. The Guigal family established their winery in 1946 when Etienne Guigal began producing wines in Ampuis, later expanding their influence across the Rhône Valley under the guidance of Marcel and now Philippe Guigal. While the house is famed for its iconic single vineyard Côte Rôties, the Châteauneuf du Pape demonstrates their ability to interpret southern Rhône terroir with equal care and consistency.

The vineyards of Châteauneuf du Pape are defined by their famous galets roulés, the large rounded stones that absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, helping Grenache and its blending partners reach full ripeness. Guigal sources fruit from a range of carefully selected sites, creating a wine that reflects the complexity and warmth of the appellation. Traditional varieties such as Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre contribute to the structure and aromatic depth, while careful maturation in oak adds refinement and balance.

The wine shows a deep ruby colour with garnet tones. Aromas unfold with ripe red cherry, plum and raspberry layered with notes of dried thyme, lavender and sweet spice. As the wine opens further hints of liquorice, leather and warm earth emerge, revealing its southern Rhône character. The palate is generous yet structured, offering flavours of dark berries, savoury herbs and gentle pepper carried by fine tannins and a rounded texture. There is a natural warmth and richness balanced by freshness, leading to a long persistent finish with lingering spice and fruit complexity.

A natural partner for slow braised lamb, roasted game, grilled meats or rustic Provençal cooking where herbs and depth of flavour mirror the wine’s character.