Châteauneuf-du-Pape Puy de Safre 2017

ProducerDomaine de la GraveiretteRegionRhône, FranceGrapeGrenacheGeologySand and clay over safreFarmingBiodynamicVintage2017Size75cl

AbstractFine, Layered, Generous
A single-variety Châteauneuf from old Grenache rooted in sandy ground.

Winemaker
Julien Mus studied viticulture and winemaking in Beaune before returning to his family vineyards near Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The grapes had gone to the local cooperative; in 2005 he founded Domaine de la Graveirette and began making his own wines.

He farms biodynamically around Bédarrides and Courthézon. The parcels include sandy ground, alluvial soils and stony terraces. Alongside Rhône appellation wines, his Vin de France bottlings make room for varieties such as Merlot, Marselan and Viognier.

Origin
Puy de Safre explores another part of La Crau, where sand and clay overlie safre, the local sandy subsoil. This gives the wine a distinct starting point within an appellation often pictured only through its large rounded stones.

The cuvée comes from old Grenache, with vines around a century in age. Julien bottles this parcel separately, keeping its identity alongside Font de Crau and the estate’s broader Châteauneuf-du-Pape blend. Biodynamic work runs through the domaine.

Wine
Puy de Safre 2017 is entirely Grenache, allowing one grape and one parcel to carry the wine. Its appeal lies in the breadth and detail of old-vine fruit, handled with a measured touch.

The cuvée includes a proportion of whole bunches and spends an extended period in stainless steel. Pour carefully and give it air in the glass. Serve with roast poultry, mushrooms or lamb, keeping the bottle a little cooler than a warm room.