Domaine du Pegau Cuvée Réservée

If there’s one Châteauneuf-du-Pape I never miss a vintage of, it’s Domaine du Pegau Cuvée Réservée. Since its founding in 1987, Laurence Féraud has guided Pegau to the very top of the Châteauneuf hierarchy, crafting wines that have captivated collectors and connoisseurs alike. Few estates in the Rhône capture such an effortless balance of depth, complexity, and authenticity.

Early in my wine career I visited Pegau for the first time. Laurence poured two unforgettable bottles—the 1989 and 1990—side by side, and I still remember them vividly. That tasting left an indelible mark, and I’ve been buying the wines ever since. Each vintage offers that unmistakable dark-fruited, spicy, and sometimes earthy character that seems to evolve and reveal new subtleties with every sip.

For those of you who don’t know, Laurence Féraud is a woman and as I often say there’s something distinctive about wines made by great female winemakers. Laurence’s touch brings a certain grace to Pegau’s natural power. Yes, the wines are full-bodied, structured, and intense, but they never feel heavy or over the top. That balance is rare in Châteauneuf-du-Pape today, where so many wines have become overly ripe and, at times, exhausting to drink.

While critics like Robert Parker once championed the most massive, opulent styles, Laurence never chased trends. She stayed true to her vision, crafting wines that speak of place and tradition rather than fashion. And for that, collectors like myself are endlessly grateful.

The 2023 Pegau Châteauneuf-du-Pape continues this legacy, offering yet another exceptional wine in a long history of greatness from this storied domaine.