Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape rouge 2016

Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape rouge is the estate's only red, assembled from parcels all over the appellation.

Clos des Papes is not a single walled vineyard despite the name but a collection of more than twenty parcels spread across Châteauneuf-du-Pape, on galets roulés, sand and limestone in roughly equal measure. The Avril family have farmed here for generations and have bottled under this label since the end of the nineteenth century. Grenache forms the base of the red, with a notably high share of Mourvèdre giving grip and savour and Syrah adding colour and pepper; the remaining permitted varieties appear in small amounts. Everything is de-stemmed, fermented in concrete and aged for around twelve months in large old foudres, and the estate declassifies heavily in weaker years rather than dilute the blend.

Beginning to open but still firm, it suits roast lamb, game and truffled dishes; decant well ahead and serve at around 17 degrees.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.