Emmanuel Reynaud, renowned owner and winemaker of the storied Château Rayas in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, passed away on November 25, 2025, at the age of 61 after battling a long illness.
Early Life and Career
Emmanuel began his winemaking journey at his family’s estate, Château des Tours in Sarrians, bought by his grandfather in the 1930s. His father Bertrand Reynaud managed it before passing it on to Emmanuel, who established the winery in 1989, allowing him to craft his first wines.
Taking Over Château Rayas
The family’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape estate, Château Rayas, was under the management of Emmanuel’s uncle, Jacques Reynaud, until his untimely death in 1997. Following this loss, Emmanuel inherited both Château Rayas and Château de Fonsalette, all while continuing to manage Château des Tours.
Known for his reserved demeanor, Emmanuel preferred to focus on his estate management rather than seeking the spotlight. This dedication made visiting Château Rayas a sought-after experience, though securing an appointment was notoriously difficult.
Winemaking Philosophy
Emmanuel Reynaud left a profound impact on the world of winemaking, particularly with his unique style. His wines, primarily crafted from Grenache, became globally recognized for their distinctiveness. They often exhibit an aromatic profile of strawberries, honey, rose petals, mint, and dried herbs, which are easily identifiable, yet others have struggled to replicate his success.
His harvesting methods involved picking grapes at optimal ripeness—often the last to do so in Châteauneuf-du-Pape—and he typically waited until after rainfall. Emmanuel favored light extraction techniques and refrained from using new oak barrels, keeping the intricacies of his process largely undisclosed.
Legacy
Emmanuel Reynaud’s contributions to winemaking have set a benchmark in the Rhône Valley, leaving behind a legacy characterized by quality and an enduring mystique associated with Château Rayas. His passing is a significant loss to the wine community, and he is remembered fondly by colleagues and fans alike.
The Decanter team extends heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.