(Image: Château Mont-Redon | https://www.vintageandvine.com/producers/rhone-valley/chateau-mont-redon)
Château Mont-Redon
Château Mont-Redon Southern Rhône, France.
Established: 1842 and 1923 (as owned by current families) Vines were grown at the estate known as Mourredon which then belonged to the episcopal estate in 1334.
Proprietor: Abeille and Fabre Family
Winemaker: Pierre Fabre
Wine Making Overview: All grapes are de-stemmed and sorted at the cellar using Visionic sorting system removing any unripe or sun-burnt grapes as well as any plant matter - only perfectly ripe and healthy sized grapes allowed to go to the crusher. This level of extreme precision helps to maintain the very precise approach to all wine-making which is aimed at retaining maximum freshness and aromatic potential. White varieties are vinified separately before blending and aged in stainless steel tanks on fine lees for 5 months, no malolactic. Red varieties are co-fermented wherever possible before fermentation in stainless steel and then half of the Chateauneuf red and one third of the Lirac are barrel aged (20% new) for about 12 months before blending back into tank before bottling.
Average Production: 90 000 dozen of all wines approx.
Average Annual Crush: approximately 850 tonnes for the estate fruit.
Viticulture: Certified HVE3 (High Value Environmental, Level 3)
Vegan Friendly: yes for Chateauneuf du Pape blanc only
Appellations:
- AOC Chateauneuf du Pape
- AOC Lirac
- AOC Gigondas
- AOC Cotes du Rhone
- Eau de Vie de Marc des Cotes du Rhone
Vineyard Area: 100 ha Chateauneuf du Pape, 33 ha Lirac, 22 ha Côtes du Rhône
Vineyards: A single vineyard in Chateauneuf du Pape in the north-west of the appellation covering most of the high plateau. A single vineyard in Lirac. Smaller vineyards of Cotes du Rhone as well as purchased fruit for Reserve Mont-Redon range of wines.
Vine Density: Chateauneuf regulations stipulate minimum 2 500 vines/ha and maximum 3 000 vines/ha
“I love seeing Pierre Fabre bring Mont-Redon back to its prior glory. I think this estate is unquestionably producing some of the top wines of the appellation today, and that should be no surprise given the incredible terroir of this estate.”
— Jeb Dunnuck October 2023
“Fabre told me that he has set a very clear and, admittedly, ambitious goal, which is “to be at the very top of the ladder in the region, no matter what it takes.” That won’t be a cheap undertaking, he admits, “and it won’t happen overnight, but the potential is there, so it’s really just a matter of vision and focus,” he said”
— Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media, Dec 2019
Château Mont-Redon will be familiar to those who know and love Châteauneuf-du-Pape being well recognized as the owners of one of the most highly regarded vineyard sites in the appellation. The superb quality of its vineyards has been recognized throughout history and prior to the adaptation of the appellation controlee system it was one of the few ‘Grand Crus’ in the region (together with Chateau Rayas).
With almost 100 hectares of Chateauneuf-du-Pape under vine, the majority of Mont-Redon’s vineyards are located in the appellation’s most favoured area, the high plateau which is covered in the large round pudding stones galets roulets that Châteauneuf is so well known for. At this high point the huge pudding stone galets lie over a rich layer of clay which retains water and keeps the earth below cool as it helps the vines resist the torrid heat of each summer. In the 1960s some limestone terroir on the western edge of the appellation was planted to white varieties which are perfectly suited to limestone soil and give whites of great freshness and purity. This remarkable property is in fact a single vineyard which is very unusual in Châteauneuf-du-Pape where holdings are usually quite scattered and parcelated.
There has been considerable investment at Mont-Redon over the past twenty years. The entire winery has been completely renewed and is now naturally climate controlled utilising the water which lies deep below the clay plateau. From this water, cool air spills down into the winery cooling every level so that the whole winery retains a very cool temperature with natural humidity. Rows of oak barriques have replaced the old large foudres of yesteryear, and large temperature controlled stainless steel vats now line the walls, resulting in wines of freshness and finesse in both red and white wines. More recently optical sorting machines at harvest time have helped to remove any unripe or shriveled grapes as well as any vegetation resulting in remarkable precision for every single wine.
In recent years the developments have continued at a great pace with Pierre Fabre being installed as wine-maker from 2008 and in 2017 Pierre took over management of the estate from his father and uncle. In 2017 he produced the first Gigondas from purchased fruit and in 2019 the purchase of more vineyards have been made in the southern Rhône. This remarkable estate will continue to develop apace as the potential of its great terroir is realised under the guardianship of Pierre Fabre.
Mont-Redon is clearly a candidate for not only the most improved producer and the best value producer of the Southern Rhône but now also one the very best producers in the large historic appellation of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Mont-Redon looks destined to become one of the highest achievers of the Rhône Valley in the coming decade. Recent reviews confirm this trend.
‘The largest estate at Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and historically the best known abroad, is the Château Mont-Redon, which has a 95 hectare vineyard. It is one of the showpieces of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with healthy, carefully tended vineyards and a spotless efficiency inside the cellars.’ - The Wines of the Rhône, John Livingstone-Learmonth.
White Wines
”Mont-Redon is the largest producer of white Chateauneuf, and the quality is excellent.” Remington Norman, Rhone Renaissance.
The 2024 Le Plateau Blanc is one of the “wow” wines of the vintage and comes across like a Grand Cru white Burgundy. Don’t miss these wines. Jeb Dunnuck, November 2025
2024 Reserve Mont-Redon Côtes du Rhône blanc (screw cap)
61 % Viognier, 15 % Grenache Blanc, 13 % Roussanne, 6% Clairette, 4% Marsanne, 1% Bourboulenc, whole-bunch pressed, then cool-fermented in stainless steel, without malolactic conversion. Matured on fine lees for a few months and bottled in the February following vintage.
‘A bright, vivid and aromatic white, mostly viognier, showing lemons, flowers and wild herbs, following through to a medium body with fresh acidity. Delightful and supple, this has a delicious core of green pears and blanched almonds on the palate and a savory finish. Drink now.' 92 points, Jamessuckling.com, April 2025.
2024 Lirac blanc
35 % Grenache Blanc, 30 % Roussanne, 25 % Clairette, 10 % Viognier from the rocky pudding stone terraces of Lirac. Hand-picked to allow precise sorting of the grapes, then whole-bunch pressed and cold-settled with a light fining. Cold-fermented at 14°-16° over three weeks, with one-third in Burgundian barriques (new and one year old) and the balance in stainless steel tanks. Matured for about eight months, before blending and bottling in May.
Review for the 2023 vintage: ‘Textured, balanced and attractive with aromas of spiced apples, dried plums and baking spices. Medium-bodied with plenty of texture and fresh acidity adding drive to the long, vibrant and flavorful finish.' 93 points, Jamessuckling.com, June 2025.
2024 Châteauneuf-du-Pape blanc
55 % Grenache blanc, 20 % Clairette, 10 % Roussanne, 10 % Bourboulenc and 5 % Picpoul, whole-bunch pressed and cold settled, then cool-fermented in stainless steel at about 15 °C over 3 to 4 weeks, without malolactic conversion. Matured on fine lees for 4 to 8 months depending on vintage.
‘Tightly wound with a firm core, this is still hazy with suspended lees, making it hard to assess accurately. Plenty of peaches and almonds as well as orange blossoms. A cuvee from three soil types: galets (round stones), sand and limestone.’ (94-95) points, Stuart Pigott, JS Wine Ratings, April 2025.
‘Based on 55% Grenache Blanc, 20% Clairette, 15% Roussanne, and 10% Picpoul Blanc from a mix of galets roulés, limestone, and sandy soils, the 2024 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc was vinified and aged entirely in stainless steel tanks. Medium gold-hued, it offers orchard fruits, quince, minty herbs, bitter almond, and a touch of minerality. Medium-bodied, fresh, and focused, it has nicely integrated acidity and a great finish. This clean, ultra-classic, balanced, impressive white will have two decades of longevity. Drink 2025-2045.' 93 points, Jeb Dunnuck, November 2025.
2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape blanc - 100th anniversary label
55 % Grenache blanc, 20 % Clairette, 10 % Roussanne, 10 % Bourboulenc and 5 % Picpoul, whole-bunch pressed and cold settled, then cool-fermented in stainless steel at about 15 °C over 3 to 4 weeks, without malolactic conversion. Matured on fine lees for 4 to 8 months depending on vintage.
‘Expansive and subtle nose of stone fruit with a touch of candied citrus underlined by leesy complexity. Rich and creamy, but also very fresh on the full-bodied palate. Then comes a terrific creamy and salty finish that lingers very long. Drink or hold.’ 96 points, Stuart Pigott, JS Wine Ratings, April 2024.
‘Bright apple, citrus, and minty herb notes all emerge from the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc, a rocking little white that has medium-bodied richness, a juicy, lively mouthfeel, and an undeniable sense of salty minerality on the finish. Based on 55% Grenache Blanc, 20% Clairette, 15% Roussanne, and 10% Picpoul Blanc, it's going to benefit from 6-12 months of bottle age and mostly like evolve for well over a decade, although I'd drink bottles through 2027.' 93 points, Jeb Dunnuck, October 2024.
‘Evoking fresh and delicate aromas of ripe orchard fruits, white fruits, spices and spring blossoms, the 2023 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is medium to full-bodied, juicy and mouth coating, with a velvety attack, a satiny mid-palate and a long, fresh, saline finish. This blend of 55% Grenache Blanc, 20% Clairette, 15% Roussanne and 10% Picpoul Blanc, matured entirely in stainless steel, is a real success.’ 92+ points, Yohan Castaing, The Wine Advocate, September 2024.
2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape blanc - 375ml last cases
50 % Grenache blanc, 30 % Clairette, 10 % Roussanne, 10 % Picpoul and Bourboulenc (in total), whole-bunch pressed and cold settled, then cool-fermented in stainless steel at about 15 °C over 3 to 4 weeks, without malolactic conversion. Matured on fine lees for 4 to 8 months depending on vintage.
‘Incredibly mineral and saline with astonishing focus and precision for this very warm location. Great lemon aromas ranging from blossoms to the peel. Great concentration, but no less vitality. Amazingly long finish that reminds me of great Alsace dry rieslings, like Clos St. Hune! Drink or hold.’ 96 points, Stuart Pigott, JS Wine Ratings, April 2023.
‘The 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc is Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and smaller amounts of Roussanne, Picpoul, and Bourboulenc. Ripe citrus, crushed stone, white flowers, and even a kiss of brioche all emerge on the nose, and it's medium-bodied, with a pure, elegant mouthfeel, good acidity, and a great finish. It's going to evolve for 10-12 years, if not longer, if well stored.' 93+ points, Jeb Dunnuck, October 2023.
2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Le Plateau Blanc
With Le Plateau Blanc Pierre has created another vision of white Châteauneuf by highlighting the salinity and texture of the galets roulés terroir of the plateau, while maintaining freshness and balance through a significant proportion of Clairette in the blend.
57 % Clairette and 43 % Grenache Blanc from the plateau, settled and cool-fermented at 14° in a mix of new and second-use 360 litre barrels and 220 litre glass Wineglobes (15 %). Post ferment, the wine is given a weekly batonnage until May and then left untouched on lees until bottling in August. Super limited.
‘On another level, the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape Le Plateau Blanc (which was bottled just before my trip) checks in as 70% Grenache Blanc and 30% Clairette raised in new barrels. Its light gold hue is followed by a gorgeous nose of ripe citrus, orange blossom, crushed stone, and spicy, minty nuances. It has nicely integrated background oak, medium to full body, a layered, elegant mouthfeel, and a great finish. It's another brilliant white from this team that readers should snatch up.' 96 points, Jeb Dunnuck, October 2024.
‘Very fresh and bright for a wine from such a hot and dry vintage. Concentrated, focused and salty, with energy that builds as it flows over your palate. Orange blossom aromas. A wonderful creamy texture on the full-bodied palate. Long, refined finish. 55% clairette and 45% grenache blanc. Matured in demi muid oak barrels and glass. Sustainable. Drink or hold.’ 95 points, Stuart Pigott, JS Wine Ratings, April 2025.
2024 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Le Plateau Blanc - VERY limited
With Le Plateau Blanc Pierre has created another vision of white Châteauneuf by highlighting the salinity and texture of the galets roulés terroir of the plateau, while maintaining freshness and balance through a significant proportion of Clairette in the blend.
65 % Grenache Blanc and 35 % Clairette from the plateau, settled and cool-fermented at 14° in a mix of new and second-use 360 litre barrels and 220 litre glass Wineglobes (20 %). Post ferment, the wine is given a weekly batonnage until May and then left untouched on lees until bottling in July 2025. Super limited.
‘The 2024 Le Plateau Blanc is one of the “wow” wines of the vintage and comes across like a Grand Cru white Burgundy. Don’t miss these wines.’ Jeb Dunnuck, November 2025
‘Coming from 100% galets roulés soils, the 2024 Châteauneuf Du Pape Le Plateau Blanc is based on 70% Grenache Blanc and 30% Clairette, vinified and aged entirely in new French oak barrels. It brings another level of depth, richness, and complexity, with orange blossom, mint, toasted spices, and caramelized peach all shining here. Medium to full-bodied, it has a concentrated, layered mouthfeel, integrated acidity, and a stunning finish. This unquestionably stands as one of the wow wines of the vintage, offering a rare mix of purity, precision, and richness, and can be kept for 20-25 years if you're so inclined. Hats off to Pierre Fabre and the whole team at Mont-Redon. Drink 2025-2050.’ 100 points, Jeb Dunnuck, November 2025.
Red wines
‘I love seeing Pierre Fabre bring Mont-Redon back to its prior glory. I think this estate is unquestionably producing some of the top wines of the appellation today, and that should be no surprise given the incredible terroir of this estate.’ Jeb Dunnuck October 2023
2023 vintage
Stylistically, 2023 is clearly different from 2022. Where 2022’s drought produced small berries, high alcohols and dense wines, 2023’s spring rains led to larger berries, finer tannins and brighter fruit. Alcohol levels remain high—often 14.5% and above in Grenache-heavy wines—but acidity is fresher, pH levels more balanced and aromas more defined. The results are particularly striking in the leading appellations. In Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas, wines combine Grenache richness with freshness and a saline edge on the finish. In the glass, the 2023 reds exude energy. The fruit tones tend toward raspberry, wild strawberry and blood orange, lifted by notes of garrigue. The tannins, plentiful but finer-grained than in 2022, convey chalk and tea leaf rather than tar. The wines are ripe but not excessive—pure, charming and elegant in profile, recalling the Rhônes of the 1990s and early 2000s more than its recent past. The Wine Advocate, October 2025
The 2023 vintage in Châteauneuf-du-Pape reflects the region's ongoing ability to adapt to wider climatic changes and the distinct challenges of each growing season. The balance of resilience and nuance seen in these wines, particularly with the interplay of the Mistral and its impact on viticulture, speaks to the unique nature of this historic appellation. While 2023 offers early appeal with its alluring reds and generous whites, the potential for greatness lies in the hands of producers who continue to push boundaries. These wines focus more on red and black fruit complexity and overall accessibility rather than structure. While the 2022s broadly require extended cellaring, the 2023 reds should shine earlier on. Although generally not set to be as long-lived as the 2022s, the finest 2023s are built to last. This year's standout producers include Clos des Papes, Domaine La Barroche and others. Vinous Media, November 2024
Châteauneuf-du-Pape rouge
2023 60 % Grenache Noir, 30 % Syrah, 8 % Mourvèdre & 2 % Cinsault, Counoise, Muscardin & Vaccarèse. Hand harvested and 100 % destemmed before fermentation over 15 to 20 days, with extraction via plunging the cap as required. Following the malolactic, a rigorous selection is performed and batches that do not meet the Estate’s quality criteria are sold in bulk. The selected batches are matured for 12 months in approximately 50 % barrels and 50 % stainless steel tanks. At this point another selection is made and any lesser batches are again sold in bulk. The final blend is then assembled in tank and matured for a further 6 months before bottling, then a further 4 to 6 months in bottle before it is available for shipping.
Brimming with youthful Amarena cherry fruit, this has excellent concentration but also a compact tannic core. Really needs some time to open up. Very long and intense finish with stacks of licorice. 96-97 points, James Suckling, April 2025.
Deep ruby-hued, the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape shows blackberries and ripe black cherries intermixed with crushed stone, graphite, pepper, and hints of violets. Based on 60% Grenache, 31% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre, and 1% other varieties, it was aged in 12% new oak, 38% older barrels, and 50% stainless steel. It's nicely concentrated, with medium-bodied richness, ripe, polished tannins, and outstanding length. Still young, inward, and unevolved, it will benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and will be one of the longer-lived wines in the vintage. Drink 2028-2045. 94 points, Jeb Dunnuck, November 2025
Réserve Mont-Redon Côtes du Rhône rouge (screw cap)
2023 50 % Syrah, 41 % Grenache noir, 9 % Marselan, Mourvèdre & Carignan. This wine has all the perfume and fleshy generosity of fully ripe Syrah and Grenache fruit with freshness and finesse of tannins and that faint hint of Provence herbs that makes southern Rhone reds, and Mont-Redon, so popular. Amazing value.
‘Chalky and fruity, this has red berries, dried herbs and baking spices on the nose, following through to a medium body with fine, firm tannins. Velvety and vivid, it has a juicy berry character in the finish. Drink now.’ 91 points, Jamessuckling.com, April 2025.
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