Domaine du Pere Caboche, Chateauneuf-du-Pape Elisabeth Chambellan

History

: Domaine Père Caboche is a historic Rhône Valley estate whose origins date back to 1777, when Jean-Louis Boisson married Elisabeth Chambellan, who brought vineyards in Châteauneuf-du-Pape as part of her dowry. The Boisson family continued cultivating vines for generations, but it was in 1950, following the first bottling of 300 bottles in 1944, that wines were officially released under the name “Père Caboche.” Remarkably, the family has maintained ownership of the vineyards continuously since 1777 without selling or exchanging parcels, resulting in exceptionally old vines across the estate, including some planted as early as 1906.

The name “Père Caboche” reflects the family’s own history and local culture. Before wine sales became sustainable, many Southern Rhône growers relied on secondary professions to support their livelihoods. The Boisson family worked as blacksmiths, earning the nickname “Caboche,” a regional term referring to the large nails used in horseshoes. Combined with “Père,” meaning “ancestor” or “forefather,” the name honors both the family heritage and the origins of their winemaking story.

About Wine

: Created in honor of Elisabeth Chambellan, who played a pivotal role in the earliest history of Père Caboche, this wine expresses the estate’s deep tradition and heritage through grapes harvested from some of its oldest Grenache vines, averaging 80 to 100 years of age.

The wine is produced from grapes grown in “La Crau,” Père Caboche’s most important vineyard, renowned for its exceptionally fertile soils. The large stones that dominate the terroir contribute richness and structure to the wine, while the underlying clay and limestone layers help retain moisture, enabling the vines to withstand unpredictable climate conditions and maintain consistently high quality year after year.

Characterized by the complexity and finesse that only old vines can provide, the blend also includes 10% Syrah and an additional 2% of 11 indigenous grape varieties, adding further depth and charm. The wine is aged for approximately 14 months using a combination of 50% French oak barrels and 50% concrete tanks before release.

Tasting Note

Grenache 88%, Syrah 10%, Mourvèdre 2%, (Blend of 10 grape varieties.)
Deep ruby red color with purple reflections. The nose reveals generous aromas of ripe blackcurrant, raspberry, and rich spices. On the palate, powerful and concentrated flavors of blackberry jam, raspberry coulis, and various spices unfold beautifully, while silky tannins and a smooth finish create excellent balance and elegance.