Dm. Chante Cigale Chateauneuf du Pape

Domaine Chante Cigale is located within the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The Domaine benefits from old vines, some of which are veritably ancient at over 100 years old. Alexandre, 7th generation, combines modern technical expertise with time-honoured winemaking practices.

Alexandre is lauded by notable journalists including Steve Danzier and Jancis Robinson for his deftly-made and reasonably-priced wines.

The soils of the vineyard are made up of clay and chalk covered with a layer of the classic large peebles (known as `galets`) found in this area, which naturally keep yields low. Harvesting is by hand, with selective sorting of the grapes.

The grapes undergo a traditional long cuvaison at quite high temperature and with extended maceration on the skins, lasting 21-24 days to extract plenty of colour. Followed by ageing for between 14-18 months in `foudres` (large oak barrels), 70% vats, 30% Burgundian pieces and casks.