Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2021 (Magnum 1.5L)

“Readers wanting to taste the best of 2021 in the Southern Rhône should seek out these latest releases from Paul-Vincent. Of course, the quality here shouldn’t surprise anyone, and Paul-Vincent has a rare ability to make truly great, age-worthy wines even in challenging vintages.” – Jeb Dunnuck

Yes. Completely. 2021 was a cool, frost-ridden year for Châteauneuf-du-Pape – but such challenges are becoming more and more the cyclical norm for wine regions the world over. The key is – as is shown here – is what the best producers can do to make each and every vintage the best possible expression of whatever Mother Nature throws their way. In this case...it is simply marvelous! Clos des Papes is already revered for its almost Burgundian edge to their wines, and this focused, elegant, and pristine 2021 vintage shines as one of the top wines of the vintage – and one worthy of praise in any vintage ever. Double 96 points, as well as a barrage of other top scores and praise from critics everywhere, speaks to that, yet we’re happy to elaborate as well.

We’ll never forget, tasting years and years ago with Clos des Papes guiding light, Paul-Vincent Avril, when we questioned him about his unique approach to crafting CdP. “Well, I love Burgundy,” he said, “and that’s what I was trained to make, but upon inheriting the winery, I now basically use my Burgundian training with Grenache”. That much is clearly evident in this 2021 – in no way a meager or thin wine, simply with an even greater Burgundian appeal than per usual. Plenty of concentration, uplifted impressively by intoxicating aromatics of lilacs, violets, incense, and spices – all while managing to infuse the palate with traditional elements of strawberries, cherries, roasted Provencal herbs, licorice, and pepper accents. Approachable now, but with a length and breadth that ensures this will continue to develop seamlessly for another 10-15 years yet.

There’s a reason this great estate of 79 acres, planted across 24 parcels of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, is widely considered to be among the best wine estates in the entire world. This 2021 is further, albeit completely unnecessary, proof and we are thrilled to have some of these excellent magnums to share! With a price of under $150 apiece when you snag two or more – this is a Rhône deal for the ages!

PAIRING IDEAS: Duck confit is my pick here but with a twist. Once the thighs are fall-off-the-bone tender, chop roughly, drizzle in some reduced game stock with fresh herbs, and then use the filling to make “raviolis” with a couple of store-bought wonton wrappers. (It works, truly.) Boil for two minutes, serve with a bit of brown butter mixed with the game stock and top with herbs. People will think you’re a Michelin-starred chef and bow at your feet!