The Sabon family is an ancient and respected name in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with their winemaking heritage first documented in 1540. Domaine Roger Sabon, established in 1952, remains a true family affair. Roger’s sons, Denis and Gilbert, currently run the estate: Denis and his son Julien oversee vineyard management, while Gilbert and his niece Delphine manage operations in the office.

The domaine has grown gradually over time to encompass 18 sustainably farmed hectares in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Most holdings lie in the northeastern part of the appellation, characterized by sandy soils rich in limestone, complemented by plots in the renowned Le Crau, famed for its red clay and galets. In the cellar, the approach has evolved toward concrete tanks and neutral oak to ensure absolute clarity and pure expression of fruit. And the clarity is there to see—these wines are luminous!

The Reserve is a blend of 80% grenache with the remainder about equal parts syrah and mourvèdre. The vines are very old—between 60 and 75 years. The grapes are hand harvested and destemmed, fermenting in tank. The wine ages 18-months in large, neutral oak barrels and foudres. This wine is rich with clines of dried flowers and black cherries, cocoa and melted licorice, the finish is all charred sandalwood and herbs.

94pts Wine Spectator