Clos des Papes: the diamond in the papal ring

2015 is a vintage that makes the most of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Cool nights gave us a fresher and intense style of fruit. But what is Chateauneuf-du-Pape? Essentially and historically it is a blend. Across the region it is a blend of terroirs and of grape varieties. There is a modern obsession with Grenache and many plantings since the war have majored on this useful vine with its drought resistant qualities. However Grenache has issues and we are increasingly finding better wines from growers with a more mixed vineyard.

At Clos des Papes Vincent and before him his father have long been masters of the mixed vineyard, with special emphasis on Mourvedre, currently emerging as the fashionable variety to investigate. The Avrils have had at least 20% of their vines as Mourvedre for decades and are currently replanting with a little more. Proof of the pudding was the so-called weak 2013 vintage when Mourvedre dominated and their wine was brilliant. In 2015, the complexity and freshness combines with the vintage's energy and vivid fruit to make Chateauneuf that is as delicious and drinkable as it is authentic.

As you know, at this property there are only two wines, the classic red and a serious yet vivacious white. Both are enjoyable young but both age really well. Put all this together with the best vintage for ages and you have wines with drinking and investment appeal. /CW

Offered subject to confirmation for shipment autumn 2017