Domaine Chante Cigale is located within the village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and has been owned and operated by the Sabon Favier family for several generations. The soils of the vineyard are made up of clay and chalk covered with a layer of the classic large peebles (‘galets’) found in this area, which naturally keep yields low. The vines are over 60 years old and situated near the plateau de Carbières (close to Château Montredon). Harvesting is by hand, with selective sorting of the grapes. The grapes undergo a traditional long ‘cuvaison’ at quite high temperature and with extended maceration on the skins (21-24 days to extract plenty of colour, fruit and tannins. This is followed by ageing for between 14-18 months in ‘foudre’ (large oak barrels), 70% vats, 30% Burgundian pieces and casks.
This is a traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with ripe black fruit aromas balanced by lightly herbal, oaky notes. The palate is generous with dark plum and black berry characters, and plump textured tannins balancing the significant 15% alcohol, which is expertly managed and integrated.
Alexandre Favier keenly promotes the biodiversity of his vineyards. He is very conscious of his role as guardian of his land for future generations and Chante Cigale is currently in conversion to full organic status.
