Kim Uncorked: Welcome to my weekly wine recommendation.
Hi, I’m Kim, a passionate lover of wine, food, and any experience that brings the two together! In this weekly blog post, I share my thoughts on a wine that I’ve recently purchased from one of our local independent wine merchants. If you’d like to know more about me, I’ve included a brief bio following the post.
2020 Paul Jaboulet Aîné Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Les Cèdres”
Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC
French Red Wine
Everything Wine
988 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
$69.98
Did you know that in the 14th century, the papal court relocated to southern France? Owing to political instability in Rome, seven popes reigned from Avignon over a period of roughly 75 years. Naturally, a pope requires a summer residence—ideally one surrounded by excellent wine. And so, the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape was born in an area defined by its sun-soaked, stony soils (galets roulés). Though the papal court eventually returned to Rome, the legacy of these
vineyards and their rich, spicy, full-bodied wine endures.
The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Les Cèdres” from Paul Jaboulet Aîné captures both the timeless character of the appellation—France’s first official AOC—and the refined style of one of the Rhône Valley’s most respected producers. In a region known for power, this house leans toward elegance and freshness over sheer weight. “Les Cèdres,” named for the cedar trees surrounding the vineyards, blends Grenache, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre.
In the glass, the wine shows a medium ruby to garnet hue. The nose opens with ripe plum and raspberry notes, layered with classic garrigue, alongside hints of tar, vanilla, and clove. Moderate acidity brings freshness and lift to a plush palate, while silky, well-integrated tannins provide a polished texture. Despite its relatively high alcohol (15%), the wine stays balanced and never feels heavy. The finish is long and persistent, with a slight gaminess adding a savory edge.
Enjoyable now, this wine will likely gain further complexity with time in the cellar.
I served the wine with rack of lamb, rosemary potatoes, and fresh asparagus—a perfect pairing!
Kim Mead is a Vancouver-based wine and food writer. She holds the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines with Merit, the French Wine Scholar designation with Honours, and Italian Wine Essentials certification. She is currently pursuing the Bordeaux Master's program with the Wine Scholar Guild. Kim serves as Cellar Master for the Vancouver chapter of the International Wine and Food Society and is a member of the Commanderie de Bordeaux. Follow her @agalandaglass