Grenache sublimated, luminous purity and aerial intensity

Absolute icon of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Château Rayas defies the stylistic standards of the appellation. Located away from the large stony plateaus, the estate rests on 12 hectares of fine sands, in the shade of a forest that tempers climatic excesses. At the helm, Emmanuel Reynaud perpetuates a unique style, based on freshness, momentum, and transparency.

Terroir & grape varieties

The vineyard, with a northeast exposure, benefits from a cool microclimate and sandy soil that gives Grenache an expression of great finesse. The estate is mainly planted with Grenache Noir for reds, and Grenache Blanc and Clairette for whites. No rolled pebbles, here everything is sand, light, and depth.

Viticulture & winemaking

The cultivation is natural, without chemical inputs, with extremely low yields. The grapes are harvested manually, in whole bunches. The fermentations are long, spontaneous, without added yeasts. The aging takes place in very old vats and tanks, without new wood, in order to preserve the purity of the fruit and the place.

Style & aging

Château Rayas red: light color, nose of cherry, strawberry, fine herbs, and delicate spices. On the palate, silky texture, mineral tension, vibrant length. It is a slender, radiant wine, out of time. It expresses itself from 8 years but can age up to 30 years, depending on the vintages.
The white, rare and equally unique, unfolds great salinity, chalky density, and remarkable straightness.