Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2016

Description

Product Description:An exemplary Chateauneuf captured at its most complete. Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2016 stands among the defining wines of its era, uniting the precision of Paul-Vincent Avril with the generosity of a near-perfect Southern Rhone vintage. The blend, predominantly Grenache supported by Mourvedre and Syrah, was drawn from 24 distinct parcels across the appellation. Each site contributes depth and dimension, from the heat-retaining stones of La Crau to the finer sands around the village, creating a wine that speaks fluently of its place. Yields were exceptionally low, averaging around 25 hectolitres per hectare, which concentrated the fruit’s natural intensity without sacrificing freshness. Fermentation occurred in traditional vats, followed by ageing in old foudres to preserve texture and aromatic complexity. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, the 2016 is a study in balance: powerful yet lifted, ripe yet controlled. It embodies the Clos des Papes philosophy of restraint and purity, a wine built to evolve gracefully over decades. Tasting NotesNOSE– Dark fruit and spiceLayers of black cherry, kirsch and blackcurrant unfold with liquorice, Provençal herbs, graphite and cacao. PALATE– Seamless powerConcentrated and full-bodied, carried by supple tannins and a polished texture that holds dark fruit, anise and mineral spice in fine equilibrium. FINISH– Persistent and poisedLong and focused with garrigue, sweet spice and fresh acidity shaping an elegant close. Reviews & AccoladesAnother perfect wine… a mammoth bouquet of kirsch liqueur, black currants, blueberries and Asian spices. Full-bodied, concentrated, yet graceful on the palate.” — Jeb Dunnuck, 100 points, 2018 Aromatically harmonious, bright and detailed… fuller-bodied than average, deep yet fresh, very well balanced and very long, with a sublime freshness.” — Decanter, 98 points, 2018 Full-bodied but balanced, with plenty of richness and concentration yet a certain paradoxical lightness… complex garrigue and anise notes, a long finish.” — Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate, 97 points, 2018 Finer Details:Style – Red WineVarietal – 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% SyrahCountry – FranceRegion – Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Southern RhoneVintage – 2016Bottle Size – 750mlABV – 15.5%Closure – Cork