Clos Des Papes (Paul-Vincent Avril) Chateauneuf-Du-Pape Rouge 2021

Clos des Papes (Paul-Vincent Avril) Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2021 is a profoundly elegant, stunningly balanced, and organically farmed red wine from one of the Southern Rhône's most iconic estates. Masterfully crafted by Paul-Vincent Avril from a highly sorted blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah, this vintage showcases remarkable freshness, purity, and tension. In the glass, it displays a deep ruby hue, opening with incredibly seductive and perfumed aromas of black cherry, ripe raspberry, and wild redcurrant, gracefully layered with delicate nuances of lilac, iris, smoked incense, and peppery Provençal spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, dense, and concentrated, delivering a solid, pure core of dark and red fruit beautifully interwoven with savory herbs and crushed stone minerality. This richness is perfectly framed by a vibrant, marked acidity and finely grained, velvety tannins, culminating in a complex, ethereal, and extraordinarily long finish that promises decades of graceful evolution in the cellar.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with a roasted rack of lamb, savory venison stew, classic beef bourguignon, robust wild mushroom dishes, and mature artisanal cheeses.

96 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

92 Points - James Suckling