2018 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Laurence- Domaine du Pegau.
From its early 17th-century roots to its standing today as a paragon of winemaking excellence, Domaine du Pegau embodies the rich heritage and innovative spirit of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Established by the pioneering Elvire Feraud and later transformed under the visionary leadership of Laurence Feraud, this esteemed estate has grown through centuries of careful cultivation and passionate winemaking.
This review delves into the storied past and vibrant present of Domaine du Pegau, exploring how tradition and innovation intertwine to create wines of exceptional depth and character, with a special focus on the remarkable 2018 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Laurence. Join us as we uncover the legacy of the Feraud family, their winemaking philosophy, and the evolution of an estate that has become a beacon of quality and tradition in the world of fine wine.
About the Winery
Located in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine du Pegau boasts a rich tapestry of history and innovation that dates back to 1670. It was then that Elvire Feraud, a pioneering winegrower and mother of four, first planted the vines that would lay the foundation for generations of viticulture. The estate flourished under the Feraud family’s care, eventually expanding to 22 hectares of prime vineyards.
The transformative chapter in the domaine’s history began in 1964 when Paul Feraud, motivated by a lifelong dedication to viticulture, decided to bottle wine under his own label. Starting modestly, he produced just 2,000 bottles annually, exclusively from grapes selected from his favorite plots. This small-scale venture marked the beginning of what would become a prestigious winemaking legacy.
The modern era of the domaine was shaped by Laurence Feraud, who, after completing her studies in oenology and wine business, returned to Châteauneuf-du-Pape in 1987. Recognizing the potential of the estate’s vineyards, Laurence proposed the creation of an independent family estate, naming it Domaine du Pegau after a historic Provençal wine jug, symbolizing the region’s rich wine history. Under her leadership, the estate’s focus shifted towards expanding its production and refining the quality of its wines.
The year 1992 marked a significant milestone when Domaine du Pegau’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape red was ranked among the top three wines at prestigious competitions, a testament to the quality and appeal of its offerings. Laurence’s strategic insight into export markets facilitated the sale of the entire 1990 vintage, affirming the domaine’s reputation on the international stage.
In 2012, the estate expanded further with the acquisition of a 41-hectare property, known as Château Pegau. This new addition not only increased their vineyard holdings but also enhanced their production capabilities. The château, a former boatmen’s relay by the Rhône, integrates winemaking facilities with areas designated for future hospitality endeavors, aimed at welcoming guests and wine enthusiasts from around the globe.
Today, Domaine & Château Pegau includes a diverse portfolio of vineyards, from Côtes du Rhône to the prestigious Châteauneuf-du-Pape, each contributing uniquely to the domaine’s complex and elegant wine profile. The estate is renowned for its adherence to traditional winemaking techniques while embracing the distinct characteristics of each variety, including indigenous grapes like Vaccarèse and Counoise.
Laurence and her team continue to honor the rich heritage of their land while pushing the boundaries of innovation in winemaking. Their wines are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and the unmistakable signature of their terroir, making Domaine du Pegau a beacon of quality and tradition in the world of fine wine.
About the Wine
The 2018 Cuvée Laurence from Domaine du Pegau proudly stands as an eloquent testimony to the mastery of extended aging. Held in old oak casks for four years, this vintage develops a richer, more nuanced character than its sibling, the Cuvée Réserve. With its robust blend predominantly featuring Grenache, complemented by Syrah, Mourvèdre, and a medley of other varietals, the Cuvée Laurence captures the essence of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s diverse terroir.
The wine presents a deep garnet hue, with subtle brick-red glints that hint at its maturity and grace. Upon opening, it releases an intoxicating bouquet; the initial earthy scents of garrigue give way to a complex array of stone fruits, plums, and a rich undercurrent of leather and underbrush—evoking the rustic landscape of its origin.
On the palate, Cuvée Laurence is a revelatory experience. The spiciness of cinnamon and pepper is perfectly balanced with the savory depth of meat and a dappling of darker spices, which unfold into a cornucopia of mature, spiced fruit flavors. The texture is velvety, rich, and almost sinfully engaging, with chewy tannins that have been softened by its time in the cask, yet retain enough vigor to promise longevity.
This wine concludes with a long, resonant finish that is both spicy and subtly sweet, a lingering reminder of its structured and layered complexity. Notes of raspberry jam, black cherry, and aromatic herbs lace the finish, leaving an aftertaste that is as memorable as it is delightful.
Conclusion:
The 2018 Cuvée Laurence is more than a wine; it is a vibrant narrative of its vintage, encapsulating a perfect osmosis of fruit, earth, and time. It stands ready to drink now, yet it promises to evolve and mature, likely reaching its peak within the next two decades. This wine is a profound choice for significant occasions, offering a taste experience that is as profound as it is pleasurable.
A sublime expression of aged Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the Cuvée Laurence is an essential addition to the cellar of any connoisseur who appreciates the power and elegance of expertly aged wines.
We award this Cuvée Laurence with a 95-point DWA score.
This review is written by our own Niels Aarts. The wines of Domaine du Pegau are sold in the Netherlands through Best of Wines, and also online available in their webshop for international customers.
Price: €76,17
Taste date: May 2024
Score: 95/100 DWA Score
Website: Domaine du Pegau