Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2015, Bouachon - Ageing in demi-muids : More wood for less oak !

For the Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2015 from Bouachon, the time has come for the wines to leave their cocoon after long ageing of more than a year in 600-liter demi-muids and 228-liter pièces.

What sets Bouachon apart from the crowds is the way it masters ageing in oak – unsurprising for a company that started out making barrels in Châteauneuf-du-Pape in 1898. The quest is for sophistication and elegance, which is assured by the right choice of container made from the right oak and given the perfect toast.


Mastering ageing at the heart of a prestigious appellation

As such, the Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2015 was partially aged in one-year-old demi-muids that had previously contained Grenache. As such, the wine oaks slowly and gently. The other part was aged in 228-liter barrels, where the greater influence of the wood softens the tannins and underscores the wine with toasted vanilla notes. A medium toast was used in both cases.

Rigorous sourcing of the staves is key, and here, they mainly came from the Allier and the Vosges. Staves from the Allier bring an aromatic richness and roundedness that envelops the wine, while respecting its aromatic expression and vigor. Those from Les Vosges bring vivaciousness, a tension that highlights the wine’s elegance and fruitiness, while the toasted finish underscores the aromas, preserves all the smooth freshness of the fruit, and brings out subtly spicy notes of cinnamon and white pepper.

The power and smoothness of this bouquet depends on the volume of wine and the area in contact with the wood, and how long the wine is aged for, hence the importance of different sized vats and the winemaker’s own special touch.


The moment of truth!

After more than a year of ageing, racking off was carried out on a clear day with high atmospheric pressure – the preferred conditions for winemaker Charlotte Fabre in order to preserve all the aromatic potential of the wine. At last, the wine was revealed in all its glory: A fine color with hints of violet, and spicy aromas topped off with touches of blueberry that are velvety and powerful on the tongue.