Domaine de Saje Chateauneuf-du-Pape Saje 2023

Domaine de Saje is a small, family-owned estate in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, producing classic wines with richness and diversity. With vineyards spread across several prized sites, including parcels strewn with the iconic galets roulés (large, heat-retaining stones) their wines benefit from a wide range of soil types and microclimates, lending complexity and balance to the final blend.

Their ‘Tradition’ cuvée is a beautifully expressive red, blending Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and a handful of other permitted varieties. Grapes are hand-harvested, fermented in concrete and stainless steel tanks to preserve fruit purity, and then aged in a mix of neutral oak and vat to round out the structure without overwhelming the natural character of the wine.

In the glass, this is classic Châteauneuf-du-Pape: plush and full-bodied with ripe blackberry, cherry and plum, lifted by savoury notes of spice, leather and garrigue. There’s power here, but it’s finely tuned, the tannins are smooth, the acidity bright, and the finish long and satisfying.

Pair it with: slow-cooked lamb, hearty stews, roast aubergine dishes, or aged French cheeses. This is a wine made for Sunday roasts and special dinners, decant for an hour if you can, or enjoy it as it slowly opens up in the glass.