Clos des Papes - Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2021 (Pre-arrival)

As one of the estates with a rich history in Châteauneuf du Pape, Clos des Papes has been consistently one of the top performers since its origins in the early 18th century. There is a sign on an ancient wall of the Château citing the Avril family as the first treasurers in Châteauneuf in 1710. Who owns the house with the address #1 in the town? The Avril’s.

Vincent took over for his father Paul in 1988 after graduating from oenology school in Beaune. Vincent has the Rhône in his mind, and Burgundy in his heart. This may explain the overarching elegance in all of his wines.

Defined raspberry and redcurrant fruits, some woody spices in the background. Quite a rounded, fluid style, the acidity is really quite marked this year. Tannins are gentle, and it finishes on raspberry and redcurrant coulis. There's a silky touch on the palate. It's built around the acidity, the tannins are just gently sandy. Good sense of purity, quite a Burgundian vintage. Less Grenache in the blend this year as it was particularly hit by the frost.

Cherries, raspberries and truffles appear on the nose of the 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape, which weighs in at 15.1% alcohol. Showing ample concentration and length, this medium to full-bodied effort isn't quite as well endowed as the 2022, but it's still a gorgeous wine, framed by silky tannins and finishing with bright, pomegranate-like fruit.

A perfumed nose of cherries, dark berries, baking spices, violets, licorice and some incense as well. It's medium-bodied with finely grained tannins. It's well-balanced with finesse and harmony. Crunchy and fresh with a velvety texture and great drinkability. Juicy, precise finish with excellent length.