Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape Rhone Wine, Complete Guide

Learn everything about Clos des Papes, Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting notes, wine and food pairing tips, best vintages, a history of the property and information on the vineyards and winemaking. If you want to read about other important wineries and wine makers from the Rhone valley: Links to all Rhone Valley Wine Producer Profiles

Clos des Papes History, Overview

Clos des Papes (Paul Avril) has a long history in the region thanks to the first Paul Avril. Avril was born in 1873 and passed away after 91 great years in the appellation. In fact, Avril was one of the key people responsible for the official birth of the Chateauneuf du Pape appellation. Avril began producing and selling Clos des Papes all the way back in 1896.

However, the Avril family has a much longer history in Chateauneuf du Pape that can be traced back to the 18th century. During the second half of the 1700’s historical records show references to members of the Avril family having acted as treasurers and municipal consuls.

Clos des Papes was one of the first estates in Chateauneuf du Pape, as well as in all of the Rhone Valley to produce, bottle and sell their own wine. Their first wine bearing the Clos des Papes label was released in 1896!

Clos des Papes sign

The second Paul Avril joined Clos des Papes in 1963. He passed away in 2009.

Clos des Papes The Modern Age

The current owner and director is Paul Vincent Avril, who was born in 1965. He started to work at Clos des Papes in 1988. Paul Avril trained at several other wineries before joining the family business at Clos des Papes. Paul Vincent Avril even had a stint at Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux where he learned more about winemaking and the trade.

It could be said that Paul Avril is a modern traditionalist. On the one hand, he destems the grapes, seeks low yields and does not filter. On the other hand, Paul Vincent Avril eschews new oak and would not consider producing a high end cuvee.

His staunch philosophy is that would only serve to harm their main brand, which is Clos des Papes, a wine that has been produced for more than a century. In 2002, it was the idea of Paul Vincent Avril to start using the unique embossed bottle you see for Clos des Papes to this day.

Clos des Papes Cellars

Clos des Papes Vineyards, Wines, Winemaking

The vineyard of Clos des Papes consists of 35 hectares of vines that are spread over 24 separate parcels in the Chateauneuf du Pape appellation for the production of their wine. 4 hectares in their cooler terroir are reserved for grapes used in the production of Clos des Pape Blanc, their white Chateauneuf du Pape wine.

31 hectares are used to plant grapes for their red Chateauneuf du Pape. Part of what makes the wine of Clos des Papes special is the range of different terroirs and soils their vineyards are located in.

The vineyards of Clos des Papes have a wide array of terroirs ranging from the rocky soils of La Crau to areas of sand, limestone and gravel soil. Perhaps some of the complexities found in Clos des Papes are in the wine due to different soils their vines are planted in.

They also have some of their best Grenache vines planted in sandy soils in the west and and southeastern part of the appellation. In the northeastern part of the appellation, you find they have more of their vines planted in the on soils littered with rocks, stones, clay and limestone.

It is the blending of these diverse terroirs and the different grape varieties that create Clos des Papes.

Most of these vines are devoted to red wines. Only 10% are reserved for production of the white wine. The white wine of Clos des Papes made its debut in 1955. At Clos des Papes, they practice biodynamic farming. In 2010, the property was certified “Agriculture Biologique.”

Clos des Papes remains one of the top wines in the region. Prices have risen, but so has the quality. The wine has the ability to age and evolve for 2 decades or more. 2016 is perhaps the finest wine they have produced. But with so many great vintages produced here, it is really hard to pick a favorite.

However, a recently tasted bottle of 1945 Clos des Papes showed just how well this wine ages! That bottle was the greatest fully mature Southern Rhone wine I have yet tasted.

The best vintages of Clos des Papes are: 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2012, 2010, 2009, 2007, 2006, 2006, 2004, 2003, 2001, 2000, 1998, 1995, 1990, 1989, 1979, 1978, 1961, 1959 and 1945.

If an award for the most consistent producer in Chateauneuf du Pape were given out for wines made over the past 60 years, or even longer, surely, Clos des Papes would be a contender to win the prize! This is easily borne out when looking at the list of top vintages from the property since the 1940’s.

Clos des Papes produces 2 wines, a red Chateauneuf du Pape and a Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc.

Clos des Papes Rouge is produced from about 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and 5% from other varietals that range from Muscardin, Vaccarese to Counoise. It is the goal of Clos des Papes to always include a large portion of Mourvedre in the blend whenever possible, for its spicy qualities and structural backbone.

On average, the vines are at least 50 years or older. Yields are kept low. For an example, the young vines are on average 28 hectoliters per hectare while the older vines often have yields of less than 21 hectoliters per hectare. They have some of their best vines planted close to the village, and in the La Crau and Courthezon lieux-dits.

The grapes are 100% destemmed at Clos des Papes. The first vintage they began destemming their grapes 100% was 1991. Clos des Papes co ferments all their different grape varietals.

Vinification takes place in temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks. The wines are fined and not filtered. The wine is aged in old foudres for about 15 months before bottling. The production of Clos des Papes is close to 7,100 cases per year.

Clos des Papes Blanc which made its debut in 1955 is produced from a blend of 20% Roussanne, 20% Grenache Blanc, 20% Clairette, 20% Bourboulenc and 20% Picpoul. The wine is vinified and aged in stainless steel tanks for 6 months. The average annual production is close to 1,000 cases per vintage.

Character and Style of Clos des Papes At its best, the wine combines intensity, concentration, complexity, purity of fruit and elegance. The texture as the wine ages ranges from silk to luscious velvet.

When to Drink Clos des Papes, Anticipated Maturity, Decanting Time

Clos des Papes can be enjoyed on the young side. But this is a wine that is much better with cellaring. Young vintages can be decanted for about 1-2 hours or so. This allows the wine to soften and open its perfume. Older vintages might need very little decanting, just enough to remove the sediment.

Clos des Papes is usually better with 5-8 years of bottle age. Of course that can vary slightly, depending on the vintage. In the best vintages the wine should be consumed within 7-25 years after the vintage.

Serving and Decanting Clos des Papes with Wine, Food Pairing Tips

Clos des Papes is best served at 15.5 degrees Celsius, 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The cool, almost cellar temperature gives the wine more freshness and lift.

Clos des Papes is best served with all types of classic meat dishes, veal, pork, beef, lamb, duck, game, roast chicken, roasted, braised, stewed dishes, barbecue, sausage and cassoulet. Clos des Papes is also good with Asian dishes, hearty fish courses like tuna, mushrooms pasta, eggplant, tomatoes and cheese.

The white wine of Clos des Papes is best served with a myriad of different seafood dishes, shellfish, crab, lobster, sushi, sashimi, chicken, pork and veal, as well as Asian cuisine.

Clos des Papes also produces the value priced, Southern Rhone wine, Petit Vin d’Avril.

www.clos-des-papes.fr

Clos des Papes Wine Tasting Notes

34 Vintages 405,813 Views Sort by Vintage-Rating

2021
95
Flowers, licorice, kirsch, black raspberries, underbrush and peppery spices fill the perfume. Elegantly styled, refined, soft and supple, with silky tannins, freshness, and lift in the kirsch, black raspberry, cherry and spice filled palate. The wine is a blend of 58% Grenache, 32% Mourvedre, 5% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. The production is quite low this year at only 18 hectoliters per hectare due to hail. This is also why you see less Mourvedre in the blend than usual. The wine is 15.1% ABV, but you do not sense any heat. Drink from 2024-2036.

Flowers, licorice, kirsch, black raspberries, underbrush and peppery spices fill the perfume. Elegantly styled, refined, soft and supple, with silky tannins, freshness, and lift in the kirsch, black raspberry, cherry and spice filled palate. The wine is a blend of 58% Grenache, 32% Mourvedre, 5% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. The production is quite low this year at only 18 hectoliters per hectare due to hail. This is also why you see less Mourvedre in the blend than usual. The wine is 15.1% ABV, but you do not sense any heat. Drink from 2024-2036.

1,046 Views   Tasted
2021
94
White peaches, honeysuckle, licorice, pomelo, orange rind, spice and white flowers create the perfume. The wine is sweet, lush, fresh and fruity, with lift, energy and a touch of salt on the backend. The wine is a complex blend of all 6 allowable, co-fermented, white wine grape varieties . The wine was produced from yields of 18 hectoliters per hectare, due to frost. Drink from 2023-2031.

White peaches, honeysuckle, licorice, pomelo, orange rind, spice and white flowers create the perfume. The wine is sweet, lush, fresh and fruity, with lift, energy and a touch of salt on the backend. The wine is a complex blend of all 6 allowable, co-fermented, white wine grape varieties . The wine was produced from yields of 18 hectoliters per hectare, due to frost. Drink from 2023-2031.

500 Views   Tasted
2020
98
Flowers are the first thing you notice before discovering all the spice, cloves, kirsch, and dark cherries on the nose. On the palate, the wine is silky, elegant, fresh, supple, and refined. The kirsch shows a beautiful purity and spicy character, along with its refined tannins and peppery strawberries that kick in at the end of the finish. The wine is a blend of 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, and 10% Syrah with the remaining 5% consisting of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. The production is quite low this year at only 25 hectoliters per hectare. The wine is 15.2% ABV, but you do not sense any heat. Drink from 2024-2038. 98 Pts

Flowers are the first thing you notice before discovering all the spice, cloves, kirsch, and dark cherries on the nose. On the palate, the wine is silky, elegant, fresh, supple, and refined. The kirsch shows a beautiful purity and spicy character, along with its refined tannins and peppery strawberries that kick in at the end of the finish. The wine is a blend of 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, and 10% Syrah with the remaining 5% consisting of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. The production is quite low this year at only 25 hectoliters per hectare. The wine is 15.2% ABV, but you do not sense any heat. Drink from 2024-2038. 98 Pts

6,153 Views   Tasted
2020
94
Flowers, white peach, honeydew, orange rind, pineapple and spice. Fresh, lush, round, oily, elegant and polished, the sweetness in the fruit, especially the whit peach notes stand out on the palate and in the finish. The wine is a complex blend of close to equal percentages of all 6 allowable, white wine grape varietal. The wine was produced from yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2023-2033.

Flowers, white peach, honeydew, orange rind, pineapple and spice. Fresh, lush, round, oily, elegant and polished, the sweetness in the fruit, especially the whit peach notes stand out on the palate and in the finish. The wine is a complex blend of close to equal percentages of all 6 allowable, white wine grape varietal. The wine was produced from yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2023-2033.

1,288 Views   Tasted
2019
98
It is the sublime sense of symmetry and richness on the palate, along with the sensuous texture that hit all the right notes. There is a gorgeous purity to the sweet kirsch, length, and silky tannins that make this vintage stand out. This wine should age and evolve for 2-3 decades with ease. The yields were only 22 hectoliters per hectare. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. Drink from 2025 - 2040.

It is the sublime sense of symmetry and richness on the palate, along with the sensuous texture that hit all the right notes. There is a gorgeous purity to the sweet kirsch, length, and silky tannins that make this vintage stand out. This wine should age and evolve for 2-3 decades with ease. The yields were only 22 hectoliters per hectare. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. Drink from 2025 - 2040.

10,951 Views   Tasted
Rich, supple, deep, intense and complex, this is stunning from the get go. One sniff of all that gorgeous, spicy kirsch, herbs, peppery spice and mélange of red fruits and you're hooked. If that wasn't enough, the silky, supple, elegant, fresh palate presence will seal the deal, finishing with its layers of deep, red fruits. This wine should age and evolve for 2-3 decades with ease. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. Drink from 2025 - 2040

Rich, supple, deep, intense and complex, this is stunning from the get go. One sniff of all that gorgeous, spicy kirsch, herbs, peppery spice and mélange of red fruits and you're hooked. If that wasn't enough, the silky, supple, elegant, fresh palate presence will seal the deal, finishing with its layers of deep, red fruits. This wine should age and evolve for 2-3 decades with ease. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. Drink from 2025 - 2040

8,103 Views   Tasted
2019
96
Lusciously textured with a focus on its tropical fruit, flowers, white peach, yellow citrus peel, almonds, apricot, and orange. On the palate, the wine is fresh, racy, and vibrant with a crispness to the fruits and an oily texture in the sweet finish. Made from close to equal percentages of all 6 allowable, white wine grape varietals. Drink from 2023-2035.

Lusciously textured with a focus on its tropical fruit, flowers, white peach, yellow citrus peel, almonds, apricot, and orange. On the palate, the wine is fresh, racy, and vibrant with a crispness to the fruits and an oily texture in the sweet finish. Made from close to equal percentages of all 6 allowable, white wine grape varietals. Drink from 2023-2035.

2,315 Views   Tasted
2018
97
Dark in color, the wine shows a black fruit character with accents of spice, white flowers, and pepper. Black raspberries and herb-tipped kirsch create the core of the wine, which is lush, supple, deep, and fleshy. The wine is full-bodied, concentrated and there is a flamboyance to the character that gives this vintage a uniqueness of character. The hedonistic nature of the finish makes this a joy to taste, with a palate-staining finish leaving you with black cherries, licorice, cocoa, chalk, and peppery kirsch. The wine is a blend of 60% Grenache, 35% Mourvedre, and a bit of Syrah, and various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. Due to attacks of mildew in the spring, the yields were the lowest in the history of the estate at only 9 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2023-2038.

Dark in color, the wine shows a black fruit character with accents of spice, white flowers, and pepper. Black raspberries and herb-tipped kirsch create the core of the wine, which is lush, supple, deep, and fleshy. The wine is full-bodied, concentrated and there is a flamboyance to the character that gives this vintage a uniqueness of character. The hedonistic nature of the finish makes this a joy to taste, with a palate-staining finish leaving you with black cherries, licorice, cocoa, chalk, and peppery kirsch. The wine is a blend of 60% Grenache, 35% Mourvedre, and a bit of Syrah, and various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. Due to attacks of mildew in the spring, the yields were the lowest in the history of the estate at only 9 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2023-2038.

4,393 Views   Tasted
2018
94
The wine opens with a blast of white peaches, white nectarines, almonds, apricots, honeysuckle, and pineapple. Luscious, fresh, long, and loaded with supple textured topical accented fruits, you can enjoy this now for all of its primary fruits and sweetness, or age it a bit more and allow the minerality to take a more active role. Drink from 2022-2032.

The wine opens with a blast of white peaches, white nectarines, almonds, apricots, honeysuckle, and pineapple. Luscious, fresh, long, and loaded with supple textured topical accented fruits, you can enjoy this now for all of its primary fruits and sweetness, or age it a bit more and allow the minerality to take a more active role. Drink from 2022-2032.

1,687 Views   Tasted
Made from close to equal percentages of all 6 allowable, white wine grape varietals, the wine leads off with aromatics of roasted nuts, orange, peach, flowers and spice. Luscious, opulent and richly textured, the wine is sweet, fresh and fruity. The wine was produced from yields of only 10 hectoliters per hectare.

Made from close to equal percentages of all 6 allowable, white wine grape varietals, the wine leads off with aromatics of roasted nuts, orange, peach, flowers and spice. Luscious, opulent and richly textured, the wine is sweet, fresh and fruity. The wine was produced from yields of only 10 hectoliters per hectare.

2,974 Views   Tasted
2017
97
On the nose you find a spicy blend of dark cherries, strawberry, Asian spice, cloves and licorice. On the palate, the wine soft, elegant, fresh and juicy, with sweet, peppery kirsch in the finish. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. The production is quite low this year at only 15 hectoliters per hectare.

On the nose you find a spicy blend of dark cherries, strawberry, Asian spice, cloves and licorice. On the palate, the wine soft, elegant, fresh and juicy, with sweet, peppery kirsch in the finish. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. The production is quite low this year at only 15 hectoliters per hectare.

6,258 Views   Tasted
2016
100
The spicy cherries might be the first thing you notice, but it only gets better from there with all the flowers, pepper, herbs and kirsch that kicks in from there. Full bodied, rich, concentrated and luxurious in texture, the sensuous layers of cherry, plum and kirsch seem endless as they build and expand in the finish. The fruit has a beautiful purity and intensity that makes you want to taste it again and again. There is a hint of licorice and salinity in the finish that comes out with air. The wine is a blend of 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. This is a monumental vintage for Clos des Papes that should not be missed by fans of this wine.

The spicy cherries might be the first thing you notice, but it only gets better from there with all the flowers, pepper, herbs and kirsch that kicks in from there. Full bodied, rich, concentrated and luxurious in texture, the sensuous layers of cherry, plum and kirsch seem endless as they build and expand in the finish. The fruit has a beautiful purity and intensity that makes you want to taste it again and again. There is a hint of licorice and salinity in the finish that comes out with air. The wine is a blend of 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. This is a monumental vintage for Clos des Papes that should not be missed by fans of this wine.

12,957 Views   Tasted
2015
96
Elegance, purity of fruit, silky tannins and the ability to harness power, concentration, and freshness, keeping everything in balance is what takes place here. Perhaps this is the most consistent wine of the appellation for the past 5 decades. But I digress. This is really a fabulous, sensuous, sexy wine, with velvet textured tannins and ripe, sweet red fruits and spice that does not want to quit. The wine was made using 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties.

Elegance, purity of fruit, silky tannins and the ability to harness power, concentration, and freshness, keeping everything in balance is what takes place here. Perhaps this is the most consistent wine of the appellation for the past 5 decades. But I digress. This is really a fabulous, sensuous, sexy wine, with velvet textured tannins and ripe, sweet red fruits and spice that does not want to quit. The wine was made using 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties.

9,133 Views   Tasted
2014
94
Elegance, purity of fruit, freshness and energy are at a very level for this semi difficult vintage. The wine serves up ripe, sweet, pure red fruits and spicy berries in suave, polished, sexy finish.

Elegance, purity of fruit, freshness and energy are at a very level for this semi difficult vintage. The wine serves up ripe, sweet, pure red fruits and spicy berries in suave, polished, sexy finish.

4,929 Views   Tasted
2013
92
Apricot, orange, melon and floral scents are coupled with a spicy, oily, fat, ripe, nutty, sweet wine.

Apricot, orange, melon and floral scents are coupled with a spicy, oily, fat, ripe, nutty, sweet wine.

2,478 Views   Tasted
2012
96
Violets, red cherries, raspberry and spicy plum scents make up the perfume. On the palate, the wine is silky, lively and fresh, expressing sweetness in the fruit, round, voluptuous textures and purity of flavor.

Violets, red cherries, raspberry and spicy plum scents make up the perfume. On the palate, the wine is silky, lively and fresh, expressing sweetness in the fruit, round, voluptuous textures and purity of flavor.

10,499 Views   Tasted
2011
92
Just about to enter the other side of maturity, you can still find ample, fresh, ripe, red fruits, spice, bouquet garni, pepper, and floral notes, but the fruit has started to lose some of its intensity. This wine requires drinking in the near future. Drink from 2022-2025.

Just about to enter the other side of maturity, you can still find ample, fresh, ripe, red fruits, spice, bouquet garni, pepper, and floral notes, but the fruit has started to lose some of its intensity. This wine requires drinking in the near future. Drink from 2022-2025.

3,869 Views   Tasted
Medium bodied, but not light, the nose kicks in with 5 spice, kirsch and peppery scents. The wine offers soft, round textures and a spicy, fresh, cherry, fennel and black raspberry finish that is further complicated by a hint of spearmint on the endnote.

Medium bodied, but not light, the nose kicks in with 5 spice, kirsch and peppery scents. The wine offers soft, round textures and a spicy, fresh, cherry, fennel and black raspberry finish that is further complicated by a hint of spearmint on the endnote.

5,596 Views   Tasted
2010
98
Full bodied, packed and stuffed with sweet, spicy berries, red fruits and floral notes. The wine is sweet, concentrated and dense. There is a lot of volume and depth in this wine. At 16% ABV ,there is no sensation of heat at any point in the experience. I could be short changing this wine on the 98 Pt score, it's sublime and really leaves a lasting impression. A few years in the bottle should add a lot to this elixir.

Full bodied, packed and stuffed with sweet, spicy berries, red fruits and floral notes. The wine is sweet, concentrated and dense. There is a lot of volume and depth in this wine. At 16% ABV ,there is no sensation of heat at any point in the experience. I could be short changing this wine on the 98 Pt score, it's sublime and really leaves a lasting impression. A few years in the bottle should add a lot to this elixir.

10,488 Views   Tasted
Move on over 2007 and make room for the 2010. Until now, I was sure the best vintage of Clos des Papes was the sublime 2007. As good as that wine is, the 2010 is even better! This is intense, pure, rich, mouth coating and long, yet everything is in balance and harmony with its decadent layers of perfectly ripe, lush, opulent layers of fruit. There is so much depth and focus to this wine, it’s close to off the charts! At close to 16% ABV, there is no sensation of heat as it’s buried under the avalanche of fruit.

Move on over 2007 and make room for the 2010. Until now, I was sure the best vintage of Clos des Papes was the sublime 2007. As good as that wine is, the 2010 is even better! This is intense, pure, rich, mouth coating and long, yet everything is in balance and harmony with its decadent layers of perfectly ripe, lush, opulent layers of fruit. There is so much depth and focus to this wine, it’s close to off the charts! At close to 16% ABV, there is no sensation of heat as it’s buried under the avalanche of fruit.

10,753 Views   Tasted
2009
95
Black raspberries, cherry, floral and bay leaf on the nose, with silky textures, freshness, cherry griotte and raspberry flavors that feel soft, fresh and silky on the medium bodied palate. The wine leave you with sweet cherries on the end note.

Black raspberries, cherry, floral and bay leaf on the nose, with silky textures, freshness, cherry griotte and raspberry flavors that feel soft, fresh and silky on the medium bodied palate. The wine leave you with sweet cherries on the end note.

7,692 Views   Tasted
2008
90
Earthy, smoky, red plums, medium bodied, lighter style of Clos des Papes with a focus on freshness, elegance, bright red fruits and spice. Drink this Burgundian styled wine on the young side. If you are thinking Parker is off his game on all the high scoring years, due to too much ABV and fruit, you will like this wine a lot.

Earthy, smoky, red plums, medium bodied, lighter style of Clos des Papes with a focus on freshness, elegance, bright red fruits and spice. Drink this Burgundian styled wine on the young side. If you are thinking Parker is off his game on all the high scoring years, due to too much ABV and fruit, you will like this wine a lot.

4,342 Views   Tasted
2007
95
No decanting needed, just pop, pour and enjoy all the layers, of rich, supple textured, spicy, peppery red fruits, wet earth, and garrigue with touches of flowers and grilled steak. Drink from 2022-2030.

No decanting needed, just pop, pour and enjoy all the layers, of rich, supple textured, spicy, peppery red fruits, wet earth, and garrigue with touches of flowers and grilled steak. Drink from 2022-2030.

4,824 Views   Tasted
Popped and poured, it took no time or effort for all the sensuous, lusciously textured, perfectly ripe, spicy cherries, herbs, pepper, and red berries to show what they had to offer. Concentrated, deep, long and with fabulous richness and staying power, the wine avoids any touch of heat, jam, or overripe flavors found in some 07 Rhône wines.

Popped and poured, it took no time or effort for all the sensuous, lusciously textured, perfectly ripe, spicy cherries, herbs, pepper, and red berries to show what they had to offer. Concentrated, deep, long and with fabulous richness and staying power, the wine avoids any touch of heat, jam, or overripe flavors found in some 07 Rhône wines.

5,812 Views   Tasted
Sexy, sensuous, and lusciously textured, this beauty is ready to go with all the perfectly ripe, spicy cherries, herbs, pepper and red berries you could ever ask for. Concentrated, deep, long and with fabulous richness and staying power, the wine avoids any touch of heat, jam or overripe flavors.

Sexy, sensuous, and lusciously textured, this beauty is ready to go with all the perfectly ripe, spicy cherries, herbs, pepper and red berries you could ever ask for. Concentrated, deep, long and with fabulous richness and staying power, the wine avoids any touch of heat, jam or overripe flavors.

6,575 Views   Tasted
Luscious, supple, rich, concentrated and focused on its purity of fruit. Ripe, sweet and yet, no heat, or jammy character, just silky, pure fruit here. This is really drinking well today. With time, this will even be better...

Luscious, supple, rich, concentrated and focused on its purity of fruit. Ripe, sweet and yet, no heat, or jammy character, just silky, pure fruit here. This is really drinking well today. With time, this will even be better...

9,371 Views   Tasted
Showing some lightness in the color, the complex nose offers garrigue, kirsch, licorice, cherry, mint and forest scents that work perfectly with the silky, luscious, fresh, berries. There is a beautiful sense of sweetness, purity and freshness in the fruit that stays with you and lingers in the mouth.

Showing some lightness in the color, the complex nose offers garrigue, kirsch, licorice, cherry, mint and forest scents that work perfectly with the silky, luscious, fresh, berries. There is a beautiful sense of sweetness, purity and freshness in the fruit that stays with you and lingers in the mouth.

11,091 Views   Tasted
This wine has been a beauty since I first tasted it in tank! What more could you ask for in a Chateauneuf du Pape? A complex nose packed with kirsch liqueur, garrigue, jam, spice and earth, sexy, lush, sensuous textures and a long, fresh, sweet, dark, black raspberry and cherry filled finish.

This wine has been a beauty since I first tasted it in tank! What more could you ask for in a Chateauneuf du Pape? A complex nose packed with kirsch liqueur, garrigue, jam, spice and earth, sexy, lush, sensuous textures and a long, fresh, sweet, dark, black raspberry and cherry filled finish.

15,304 Views   Tasted
With a rich, deep color, the perfume exhibits pepper, black raspberry jam, grenadine, garrigue, licorice and raspberry liqueur. The opulent, silky textured fruit coats your mouth and palate, ending in a long, peppery, sweet, pure, red cherry liqueur finish. This is one of the most sensuous Chateauneuf du Pape wines I've ever tasted. WOW!

With a rich, deep color, the perfume exhibits pepper, black raspberry jam, grenadine, garrigue, licorice and raspberry liqueur. The opulent, silky textured fruit coats your mouth and palate, ending in a long, peppery, sweet, pure, red cherry liqueur finish. This is one of the most sensuous Chateauneuf du Pape wines I've ever tasted. WOW!

20,158 Views   Tasted
2006
96
This is really drinking in the sweet spot. the showy nose, with its ripe and over ripe cherries, kirsch, pepper and garrigue starts you up, and the boatload of perfectly ripe, red fruits, spice and herbs, coupled with wild, silky textures finishes the job.

This is really drinking in the sweet spot. the showy nose, with its ripe and over ripe cherries, kirsch, pepper and garrigue starts you up, and the boatload of perfectly ripe, red fruits, spice and herbs, coupled with wild, silky textures finishes the job.

6,327 Views   Tasted
Just a lovely example of everything that makes Clos des Papes such a pleasure to drink. Combining freshness, opulence, ripe fruit, spicy notes and a complex nose, there is ample structure to age and a vibrant quality in the finish giving the lift and length. Still young, this is drinking well today, but a few more years will add more to the wine.

Just a lovely example of everything that makes Clos des Papes such a pleasure to drink. Combining freshness, opulence, ripe fruit, spicy notes and a complex nose, there is ample structure to age and a vibrant quality in the finish giving the lift and length. Still young, this is drinking well today, but a few more years will add more to the wine.

7,645 Views   Tasted
Thick, dense, yet light on its feet, the wine is packed with delicious, sweet, spicy red berries, kirsch, wet earth and floral scents with just a hint of sweet jam. Silky, plush and mouth filling, you can drink now, or age it. This is a beauty!

Thick, dense, yet light on its feet, the wine is packed with delicious, sweet, spicy red berries, kirsch, wet earth and floral scents with just a hint of sweet jam. Silky, plush and mouth filling, you can drink now, or age it. This is a beauty!

7,562 Views   Tasted
2005
93
Fresh, bright, sweet, peppery kirsch from start to finish is found here. Elegant, juicy and fresh, with good concentration, energy, length and purity.

Fresh, bright, sweet, peppery kirsch from start to finish is found here. Elegant, juicy and fresh, with good concentration, energy, length and purity.

5,922 Views   Tasted
Bright, fresh, peppery, black raspberry, kirsch, garrigue and fennel scents open to a rich, sweet, spicy plum and black cherry jam filled wine this is still young. But if you like your Chateauneuf du Pape on the young side like I do, it's showing nicely.

Bright, fresh, peppery, black raspberry, kirsch, garrigue and fennel scents open to a rich, sweet, spicy plum and black cherry jam filled wine this is still young. But if you like your Chateauneuf du Pape on the young side like I do, it's showing nicely.

10,884 Views   Tasted
2004
93
A beautiful nose with peppery red cherries and black cherries, earth, black raspberry jam and fresh herbs open to a soft textured, kirsch filled wine that is already drinking well.

A beautiful nose with peppery red cherries and black cherries, earth, black raspberry jam and fresh herbs open to a soft textured, kirsch filled wine that is already drinking well.

7,005 Views   Tasted
2003
95
Concentrated, lush and full bodied, the powerful wine kicks off with jammy black cherries, pepper, figs and Provencal herbs. Not exactly delicate, this is more focused on the volume and stylistic character. There is a touch of dryness in the finish that is not off putting, but part of the wines character. There is no touch of heat or over-ripeness here. Still young, this is not your grandmother's Clos des Papes.

Concentrated, lush and full bodied, the powerful wine kicks off with jammy black cherries, pepper, figs and Provencal herbs. Not exactly delicate, this is more focused on the volume and stylistic character. There is a touch of dryness in the finish that is not off putting, but part of the wines character. There is no touch of heat or over-ripeness here. Still young, this is not your grandmother's Clos des Papes.

5,132 Views   Tasted
Much better than a bottle tasted a few months ago, still, while there was a lot to like here, with its jammy kirsch, spice, earth and peppery profile, this is not a wine I'd hold for more development. Drink up over the next few years is my advice.

Much better than a bottle tasted a few months ago, still, while there was a lot to like here, with its jammy kirsch, spice, earth and peppery profile, this is not a wine I'd hold for more development. Drink up over the next few years is my advice.

6,584 Views   Tasted
Hopefully, as my instincts say, this was an off bottle. Much of the freshness and red fruit were missing, and instead, the wine showed an intense jammy, fig like quality that was far too overripe, and flabby. This was from the same case as other bottles that have been stunning. So, sadly, your guess was as good as mine.

Hopefully, as my instincts say, this was an off bottle. Much of the freshness and red fruit were missing, and instead, the wine showed an intense jammy, fig like quality that was far too overripe, and flabby. This was from the same case as other bottles that have been stunning. So, sadly, your guess was as good as mine.

5,132 Views   Tasted
Not as robust as it was during the prime of its youth, but then who is? Layers of sweet, ripe, very ripe and over ripe dark red fruits, licorice, spice, earth, herbs and kirsch liqueur are all over the place. Rich, lusty, but not over the top, this is not a wine to hold from here.

Not as robust as it was during the prime of its youth, but then who is? Layers of sweet, ripe, very ripe and over ripe dark red fruits, licorice, spice, earth, herbs and kirsch liqueur are all over the place. Rich, lusty, but not over the top, this is not a wine to hold from here.

6,610 Views   Tasted
Perfectly ripe cherries, lavender, pepper and garrigue, with a faint hint of prune in the nose. Silky, soft and plus, with a great sense of purity, there is nothing over the top, or out of place in this wine. The sweet, ripe, cherries and kirsch carry all the way through. One could quibble and with the minor sense of heat in the finish, but that does not detract from the experience. At 11 years of age, this could be in the sweet spot.

Perfectly ripe cherries, lavender, pepper and garrigue, with a faint hint of prune in the nose. Silky, soft and plus, with a great sense of purity, there is nothing over the top, or out of place in this wine. The sweet, ripe, cherries and kirsch carry all the way through. One could quibble and with the minor sense of heat in the finish, but that does not detract from the experience. At 11 years of age, this could be in the sweet spot.

7,134 Views   Tasted
Ripe scents of black cherry liqueur, raisins, pepper, black raspberry, spice and kirsch lead to a full bodied, packed youthful Chateauneuf du Pape. This is a very ripe, concentrated, powerful style of Clos des Papes that some tasters like more than others.

Ripe scents of black cherry liqueur, raisins, pepper, black raspberry, spice and kirsch lead to a full bodied, packed youthful Chateauneuf du Pape. This is a very ripe, concentrated, powerful style of Clos des Papes that some tasters like more than others.

11,124 Views   Tasted
Smokey black cherry, garrigue, lavender, all spice, kirsch liqueur, fresh cut herbs and intense black raspberry scents create the compelling perfume. Dense, corpulent, concentrated and packed with layers of sweet, ripe, juicy fruit, this wine grabs your attention without an apology.The wine fills your mouth and coats your palate with layers of fruit and flavor. This seems young and should only get better over the next decade or two... This is not a wine of finesse. But it is a delicious wine of Chateauneuf du Pape.

Smokey black cherry, garrigue, lavender, all spice, kirsch liqueur, fresh cut herbs and intense black raspberry scents create the compelling perfume. Dense, corpulent, concentrated and packed with layers of sweet, ripe, juicy fruit, this wine grabs your attention without an apology.The wine fills your mouth and coats your palate with layers of fruit and flavor. This seems young and should only get better over the next decade or two... This is not a wine of finesse. But it is a delicious wine of Chateauneuf du Pape.

12,477 Views   Tasted
When this wine was first delivered to the states, it stirred an intense controversy over the Internet. Awarded a high score by Robert Parker, some tasters called the wine a mess. I've enjoyed stunning bottles of this wine at times. On other occasions, the wine seemed like it suffered heat damage at some point. One specific friend has opened it numerous times and everyone of his bottles have been flawed. All my bottles have been sublime. At dinner last night, a guest brought a bottle and clearly, the wine endured damage along the way. The wine was light in color, flavor and density. There was an enjoyable level of kirsch, garrigue and herbs, but that is not what the wine delivers at its best. It was not a bad tasting experience, but this bottle was at best average.

When this wine was first delivered to the states, it stirred an intense controversy over the Internet. Awarded a high score by Robert Parker, some tasters called the wine a mess. I've enjoyed stunning bottles of this wine at times. On other occasions, the wine seemed like it suffered heat damage at some point. One specific friend has opened it numerous times and everyone of his bottles have been flawed. All my bottles have been sublime. At dinner last night, a guest brought a bottle and clearly, the wine endured damage along the way. The wine was light in color, flavor and density. There was an enjoyable level of kirsch, garrigue and herbs, but that is not what the wine delivers at its best. It was not a bad tasting experience, but this bottle was at best average.

11,200 Views   Tasted
This sports one of the darkest colors I’ve seen in a young Chateauneuf. Intensely concentrated with massive layers of ripe, dark and peppery, ripe red fruit. Full bodied, ABVic and richly concentrated, I'm not sure why this wine invites all the controversy.

This sports one of the darkest colors I’ve seen in a young Chateauneuf. Intensely concentrated with massive layers of ripe, dark and peppery, ripe red fruit. Full bodied, ABVic and richly concentrated, I'm not sure why this wine invites all the controversy.

7,344 Views   Tasted
2001
95
Rich, intense, full-bodied, concentrated, spicy, sweet, fresh, vibrant layers of kirsch, black pepper, licorice, herbs and meaty nuances, as well as a touch of VA pop as soon as the cork leaves the bottle. The wine exudes spicy kirsch notes from start to finish. Popped and poured there is no reason to wait if you are holding on to any bottles.

Rich, intense, full-bodied, concentrated, spicy, sweet, fresh, vibrant layers of kirsch, black pepper, licorice, herbs and meaty nuances, as well as a touch of VA pop as soon as the cork leaves the bottle. The wine exudes spicy kirsch notes from start to finish. Popped and poured there is no reason to wait if you are holding on to any bottles.

4,073 Views   Tasted
If you're seeking to get seduced by a mature, Chateauneuf, look no further The purity in the sweet cherries is perfectly matched by its earthy floral and spicy quality, soft textures and sensuous, red fruit filled finish.

If you're seeking to get seduced by a mature, Chateauneuf, look no further The purity in the sweet cherries is perfectly matched by its earthy floral and spicy quality, soft textures and sensuous, red fruit filled finish.

4,493 Views   Tasted
What a super wine and in the perfect sweet spot too. Complex aromatics are in synch with the rich, sweet, concentrated, pure black cherries, earth, plum and spice notes that take up most of the room in your mouth. Fresh, long and clean, with great purity of fruit, what are you waiting for? Pop a cork!

What a super wine and in the perfect sweet spot too. Complex aromatics are in synch with the rich, sweet, concentrated, pure black cherries, earth, plum and spice notes that take up most of the room in your mouth. Fresh, long and clean, with great purity of fruit, what are you waiting for? Pop a cork!

4,510 Views   Tasted
A rich perfume of fresh black pepper, kirsch, 5 spice, fennel and black raspberry jam open to a wine filled with soft, velvet like tannins. The wine ends with a juicy mouthful of ripe Grenache, spice and kirsch. This is drinking great today.

A rich perfume of fresh black pepper, kirsch, 5 spice, fennel and black raspberry jam open to a wine filled with soft, velvet like tannins. The wine ends with a juicy mouthful of ripe Grenache, spice and kirsch. This is drinking great today.

8,129 Views   Tasted
2001
89
Good rich character, ripe, full bodied in an exotic style. Already showing well. Might not be long lived.

Good rich character, ripe, full bodied in an exotic style. Already showing well. Might not be long lived.

1,979 Views   Tasted
2000
93
Refined, elegant, soft and silky, the sweet red fruits are spicy, vibrant, clean and pure. Fully mature, medium-bodied, charming and fresh, the peppery, earthy, herbal strawberry cherry and raspberry finish hit the spot. There is no reason to hold this any longer.

Refined, elegant, soft and silky, the sweet red fruits are spicy, vibrant, clean and pure. Fully mature, medium-bodied, charming and fresh, the peppery, earthy, herbal strawberry cherry and raspberry finish hit the spot. There is no reason to hold this any longer.

4,069 Views   Tasted
All good things must eventually come to an end, which is this wine is going. At weeks before its 14th birthday, the wine does not have the same freshness, level of fruit or vivacity it displayed in its youth. It was easy to find the kirsch, licorice and garrigue character, along with its trademark supple textures, but the wine is clearly fading. I'm going to finish my few remaining bottles over the next year or two.

All good things must eventually come to an end, which is this wine is going. At weeks before its 14th birthday, the wine does not have the same freshness, level of fruit or vivacity it displayed in its youth. It was easy to find the kirsch, licorice and garrigue character, along with its trademark supple textures, but the wine is clearly fading. I'm going to finish my few remaining bottles over the next year or two.

4,985 Views   Tasted
Lush textures and a perfume packed with kirsch, Provencal herbs, earth, strawberry jam and pepper. Elegant, charming, sensuous, fresh, pure and drinking perfectly today.

Lush textures and a perfume packed with kirsch, Provencal herbs, earth, strawberry jam and pepper. Elegant, charming, sensuous, fresh, pure and drinking perfectly today.

7,098 Views   Tasted
Jammy blackberries, raspberries, cherry liqueur, Provencal herbs and black pepper are easy to find. The texture melds power with Chateauneuf styled elegance. Very concentrated wine. The long, pleasurable, multi-faceted finish is a treat.

Jammy blackberries, raspberries, cherry liqueur, Provencal herbs and black pepper are easy to find. The texture melds power with Chateauneuf styled elegance. Very concentrated wine. The long, pleasurable, multi-faceted finish is a treat.

4,078 Views   Tasted
1999
92
On the fresh, bright, crisp and floral side, the cherries are still sweet, crisp, floral and elegant. The finish offers an elegant, bright, kirsch filled note. Not the deepest or more concentrated wine from the estate, but it is among the more refined and charming vintages produced here.

On the fresh, bright, crisp and floral side, the cherries are still sweet, crisp, floral and elegant. The finish offers an elegant, bright, kirsch filled note. Not the deepest or more concentrated wine from the estate, but it is among the more refined and charming vintages produced here.

4,155 Views   Tasted
1998
93
Elegant in style, there is good freshness to all the sweet, ripe, kirsch, cherries and black raspberries, accompanied by spice, herbs and black pepper aromatics. Medium bodied, silky and refined, this is already fully mature. There is no reason to hold it for further aging.

Elegant in style, there is good freshness to all the sweet, ripe, kirsch, cherries and black raspberries, accompanied by spice, herbs and black pepper aromatics. Medium bodied, silky and refined, this is already fully mature. There is no reason to hold it for further aging.

3,889 Views   Tasted
1995
93
Kirsch, pepper, fresh herbs, strawberries and ripe cherries open to a soft, ripe, elegant expression of Grenache. At close to 20 years of age, this seems to be a fully mature Chateauneuf du Pape that is right on top of its game.

Kirsch, pepper, fresh herbs, strawberries and ripe cherries open to a soft, ripe, elegant expression of Grenache. At close to 20 years of age, this seems to be a fully mature Chateauneuf du Pape that is right on top of its game.

5,338 Views   Tasted
Black cherry, kirsch, earth, truffle and fresh market herbs. Robust, concentrated black cherry and herb flavors end with a dense melange of dark cherry, jam and plum flavors. This fully mature Chateauneuf du Pape might have been a little more interesting a year or two ago. There is no reason to age this any longer.

Black cherry, kirsch, earth, truffle and fresh market herbs. Robust, concentrated black cherry and herb flavors end with a dense melange of dark cherry, jam and plum flavors. This fully mature Chateauneuf du Pape might have been a little more interesting a year or two ago. There is no reason to age this any longer.

5,528 Views   Tasted
1990
95
This fully mature Chateauneuf du Pape offered a lot of excitement on the nose. Fresh black cherry, garrigue, kirsch, herbs, camphor and anise made up the perfume. Full bodied with soft textures, concentration and finesse. If the spicy, kirsch filled finish was a bit longer, it would have earned a higher score. This is not going to improve. I'm going to enjoy my two remaining bottles over the next year or two.

This fully mature Chateauneuf du Pape offered a lot of excitement on the nose. Fresh black cherry, garrigue, kirsch, herbs, camphor and anise made up the perfume. Full bodied with soft textures, concentration and finesse. If the spicy, kirsch filled finish was a bit longer, it would have earned a higher score. This is not going to improve. I'm going to enjoy my two remaining bottles over the next year or two.

5,169 Views   Tasted
Calling it a mini version of Rayas is an accurate description. The nose exploded from the glass with spicy cherry tones, herbs, jammy black fruits and pepper. As good as the nose was, the palate might even have been better! Dense, thick, full bodied fruits filled your mouth with layers of elegant red and black fruits. The finish lasted at least :35.

Calling it a mini version of Rayas is an accurate description. The nose exploded from the glass with spicy cherry tones, herbs, jammy black fruits and pepper. As good as the nose was, the palate might even have been better! Dense, thick, full bodied fruits filled your mouth with layers of elegant red and black fruits. The finish lasted at least :35.

2,659 Views   Tasted
1979
93
Every time I have this wine, I walk away impressed and this bottle was no exception. Still vibrant, fresh, lusty and full of life, the fruit were there in abundance and the delicious finish really sticks with you.

Every time I have this wine, I walk away impressed and this bottle was no exception. Still vibrant, fresh, lusty and full of life, the fruit were there in abundance and the delicious finish really sticks with you.

2,914 Views   Tasted
Tasted blind, I was sure this was several years younger than its true age. The attention grabbing aromatics with their earthy, pepper, kirsch, garrigue and spice don’t let go. The silky, ripe, array of ripe fruits on the palate are even better. There is no reason to hold back from popping a cork if you are lucky enough to own this wine.

Tasted blind, I was sure this was several years younger than its true age. The attention grabbing aromatics with their earthy, pepper, kirsch, garrigue and spice don’t let go. The silky, ripe, array of ripe fruits on the palate are even better. There is no reason to hold back from popping a cork if you are lucky enough to own this wine.

4,359 Views   Tasted
1969
95
Very few Chateauneuf age past 12-15 years, with only a handful or so of wines making it past 25 years, but this Clos des Papes was simply off the hook at more than 50 years of age! The nose, with its cigar, mint, strawberry, and charcoal was gorgeous, and the silky, pure, red-toned fruits on the palate were as good, if not better. It is not a candidate for further aging, but if you ever see one of these gens, grab it, and call me! Drink from 2023-2025.

Very few Chateauneuf age past 12-15 years, with only a handful or so of wines making it past 25 years, but this Clos des Papes was simply off the hook at more than 50 years of age! The nose, with its cigar, mint, strawberry, and charcoal was gorgeous, and the silky, pure, red-toned fruits on the palate were as good, if not better. It is not a candidate for further aging, but if you ever see one of these gens, grab it, and call me! Drink from 2023-2025.

1,287 Views   Tasted
1945
94
Cloudy, red in color, ample scents of kirsch liqueur, truffle, grilled steak, cherry wood, cherry pipe tobacco, spice and black cherry caught your attention and kept it. Soft, sweet, pure and intense, with time in the glass, the elegant, spice, red berry filled wine began to fade. On the other hand, a wine like this is a time machine. World War Two had just ended. The Nazis were defeated in and much of Europe was in shambles, needing to be rebuilt. Knowing that was taking place while this wine was alive, once again, wine became the only working time machine!

Cloudy, red in color, ample scents of kirsch liqueur, truffle, grilled steak, cherry wood, cherry pipe tobacco, spice and black cherry caught your attention and kept it. Soft, sweet, pure and intense, with time in the glass, the elegant, spice, red berry filled wine began to fade. On the other hand, a wine like this is a time machine. World War Two had just ended. The Nazis were defeated in and much of Europe was in shambles, needing to be rebuilt. Knowing that was taking place while this wine was alive, once again, wine became the only working time machine!

4,118 Views   Tasted
1937
80
The oldest Rhone I have ever tasted was the color of light tea. The smoky, mineral and herbal perfume had no hints of fruit. Soft, rustic herbs and tart cherries were found in the finish. While this was not a great or even good wine, tasting bottled history is always a treat.

The oldest Rhone I have ever tasted was the color of light tea. The smoky, mineral and herbal perfume had no hints of fruit. Soft, rustic herbs and tart cherries were found in the finish. While this was not a great or even good wine, tasting bottled history is always a treat.

3,362 Views   Tasted