Clos des Papes is owned by the Avril family, now headed by Paul Avril and his son Vincent. The family has been making wine in Chateauneuf-du-Pape for 300 years. The name Clos des Papes comes from the fact that the original vineyard was part of a papal estate located inside a chateau. The Avril family now owns parcels throughout the Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation, giving the estate a total of nearly 90 acres of vineyards planted mostly to Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah.
Light red in color. Almost translucent. 14% ABV. Spellbinding nose of red fruits, iron, kirsch and leather. Light to medium body with perfect acidity. Clean, fresh and elegant. Cherries, black raspberries, garrigue and crushed black pepper on the palate. The finish is incredibly long and silky. Tremendous showing for a CdP approaching 20 years of age. A product of a classic producer and a classic vintage. Drink over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 96 points.
Current vintages of Clos des Papes are readily available. Look for the the 2014 and 2015 but expect to pay upwards of $100 per bottle.
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.