Regional law stipulates that red and white wines must be produced within the commune of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and four adjacent villages. The primary grape is Grenache, which constitutes the majority of plantings. The regulation allows for thirteen varieties, including Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault. Uniquely, the decree requires a minimum natural alcohol content of 12.5 percent, the highest legal minimum for any French appellation. Mechanical harvesting is prohibited by law to ensure berry integrity.
The landscape is defined by galets roulés, large quartzite stones deposited by Alpine glaciers. These stones absorb heat during daylight hours and release it to the vines overnight, aiding the ripening process during the mistral winds. While the appellation allows for thirteen grapes, some historical documents list eighteen when accounting for sub-varieties and colour mutations. The bottles are distinguished by the papal tiara and the keys of Saint Peter embossed on the glass.
Tasting rooms in the village typically operate from 10:00 to 18:00, though many estate cellars close for two hours at midday according to local custom. The seasonal cycle begins with winter pruning in January, leading to the primary harvest in September. Production remains strictly limited to red and white wines; the AOC does not permit the production of rosé. Most red wines undergo ageing in large oak foudres or concrete vats rather than small new barriques.