Chateauneuf du Pape, the stuff upon which Nine Popes is based, when translated to English means “Castle of the new Pope”, as it was the home to the alternate papacy (read French Pope!!) in the 13th Century. But in many of the old languages the word “neuf” can mean both “nine” and “new”. After Charlie had made the wine that was to become the first (as yet unnamed) Nine Popes, he cast around for clues to help him arrive at a name – as calling a wine “Charles Melton Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvedre” back in the ‘80s would have created as much excitement as (insert own local comparison here!!). So, drawing on really the only classic Grenache area in the world (yes, we know Spain etc grow lots of Grenache but not too many wines, if any, have worldwide recognition), he looked at Chateauneuf du Pape and decided to give it a little Aussie twist and avoid litigation with the French. Problem was, his French skills were a tad light on (non-existent!!) and he thought Chateauneuf du Pape meant home of the “Nine” Popes... ‘nuff said?!! www.charlesmeltonwines.com.au
