WINEMAKER'S NOTES:
Clos des Papes produces one red and one white Châteauneuf-du-Pape and that’s it. This kind of loyalty to the terroir has solidified this estate’s reputation as the epitome of class in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Blend: 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, 5% ten other varietals
Tasting Notes:
Bright and floral on the nose. The tannins are extremely fine, almost imperceptible, but very much present, giving the wine a strong base for long ageing. It's perfectly balanced, long and deep, resulting in a rich but surprisingly classic vintage of Clos des Papes considering the extreme conditions this year. Rich but bright, very complete and pure with no excesses. Vines are typically 30 to 40 years old, spread across 24 parcels. Matured for 12 months in foudres of at least four years of age.
-Decanter, 98 pts
Coming in at 16% alcohol (like the 2016), the 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape from Clos des Papes carries it comfortably, showing no sign of overt heat or overripeness. Hints of leather and crushed stone appear on the nose, adding a pleasant nuance to the somewhat monolithic black-cherry fruit. It shows less nuance and complexity than the 2020 at this stage but shows plenty of promise, as its concentration is matched by freshness and a long, reasonably elegant, finish. This will likely need some time to come around. Best after 2025.
-Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 98 pts
