Rhône theme
Online-Only Auction, 14 - 21 February 2022
Rhône theme
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
One of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s key historical properties, Clos des Papes is a 40-hectare, organically-farmed domaine. Back in 1896, it was the very first Rhône producer to bottle and sell its own wines under its own label. Of the 40 hectares, 3 are planted to white varieties with 30 different parcels spread around the village. One of the parcels is planted near the Pope’s castle, surrounded by a wall, or ‘clos’, which inspired the name of the domaine. Current custodian, Paul-Vincent Avril is a passionate man who seeks balance, elegance and depth in his wines. At 16, Paul-Vincent left his family domaine to study around the world and complete internships, including a stint at Château Mouton-Rothschild, before returning home and taking over the reins.
Critics Ratings
‘Still relatively young tasting, the 2009 Châteauneuf-du-Pape accents lush red fruit with hints of leather and Asian five spice powder. It's full-bodied and velvety, ripe, plush and long, a completely delicious taste experience that culminates in a lick of salted licorice. Owners should count themselves lucky to have purchased some, as this still has a decade or more of life ahead of it. As Paul-Vincent Avril said, "2009 is still a baby—decant it if you can."’ - Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate, 97/100 (Aug 2019)
‘Sinewy and reserved, with a light dusting of cocoa powder over the tangy damson plum, red licorice and cassis notes. The long, supple finish, with a lovely wafting note of Lapsang souchong tea, is packed with minerality and tight-grained tannins that will need time to fully evolve. One of the more backward 2009s, though this should pick up steam in the cellar. Best from 2013 through 2025.’ - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 96/100 (Nov 2011)
View all Paul Avril Clos des Papes lots for sale in this auction
Other lots that might interest you
