St Theodoric
La Guigasse looking south toward Clos du Caillou and Rayas. Showing the gold color of the sand.
St. Theodoric: La Guigasse and Le Grand Pin showcase the magic of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
St. Theodoric, a boutique wine project spearheaded by American importer Peter Weygandt, has solidified its reputation as one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s hidden gems. Focused exclusively on two small, organic parcels—La Guigasse and Le Grand Pin—the domaine produces 100% Grenache wines that celebrate the unique terroir of these sandy soils. With hands-on winemaking led by Baptiste Grangeon of Domaine de Cristia, the estate has been turning out refined, terroir-driven wines since its inception. The upcoming release of the highly anticipated 2022 vintage continues their tradition of excellence.
La Guigasse, located in the eponymous lieu-dit, spans 1.75 hectares and features pure, golden-hued sandy soils with minimal stones. Northeast-facing and neighboring Clos du Cailloux’s renowned “Quartz” parcel, the vineyard’s Grenache vines date back to 1934, with some replanting as recently as 2009. La Guigasse is known for producing wines with elegant textures and complex aromas, showcasing notes of ripe cherries, garrigue, and dark chocolate. The 2022 vintage promises a balance of full-bodied richness with a light, airy structure, earning glowing early reviews.
South to the woods capping the top of the hill above Chateau Rayas.
The tall pine on the left, then our vines in the foreground, Chateau Rayas vines in the background, and the Mont Ventoux in the distance.
Le Grand Pin, also 1.75 hectares, lies at the easternmost edge of Pignan, sharing a boundary with the legendary Chateau Rayas. The vineyard’s bright white sand, higher elevation, and southwestern exposure allow it to soak in the afternoon sun, producing wines that ripen slightly later and are typically lower in alcohol. Named after the iconic pine tree marking its border, Le Grand Pin yields ethereal wines with delicate floral notes, wild strawberries, and hints of pine resin. Critics have already highlighted the 2022 Le Grand Pin as an exceptional expression of the vineyard’s finesse and vibrancy.
Both parcels share a dedication to traditional winemaking methods, including 100% whole-cluster fermentation with indigenous yeasts and aging in neutral demi-muids for up to two years. The vines, ranging from 30 to over 100 years in age, are farmed organically (certified since 2009) to preserve the integrity of the terroir. Bottled unfiltered, these wines are a testament to the purity of Grenache grown on sandy soils, delivering wines that are both age-worthy and immediately captivating.
Le Grand Pin, and the Chemin de Pignan on the left. Showing the white sand.
With the 2022 vintage, St. Theodoric continues to solidify its place among Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most exciting producers. These wines, produced in limited quantities, embody a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and a deep respect for the land. For collectors and enthusiasts, the arrival of the 2022 La Guigasse and Le Grand Pin is an opportunity to experience the captivating elegance of these singular parcels.
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC
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BP 12-25 avenue Général de Gaulle
84231 Châteauneuf-du-Pape cedex - peter@weygandtmetzler.com
* DISCLAIMER: All St. Theodoric photography used in this site is property of St. Theodoric.