Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape (stained label) 2001

Professional Ratings

• 95 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  Paul Avril feels that purchasers of the 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape should “wait ten years” before drinking it. A blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, and 5% Counoise, all aged in large wood foudres prior to being bottled without filtration, was produced from low yields of 27 hectoliters per hectare. A deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by a sweet bouquet of figs, raspberries, new saddle leather, autumnal forest floor, and resiny notes. Full-bodied with beautiful purity as well as a strikingly rich mouthfeel, this seriously endowed Chateauneuf admirably conceals its 14.5% alcohol. A structured finish and impressive extract levels suggest considerable longevity. This firmly tannic, intensely concentrated 2001 boasts great aromatic and palate presence, but it remains young and unevolved. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2020+.
• 94 Wine Spectator
  This has hit its second phase with beautiful definition, showing hints of Lapsang souchong tea, roasted apple wood and juniper, joined by singed bay leaf, mulled blackberry and black currant fruit and a long, spice box-infused finish. As graceful and restrained as this is, it still has the reserve tank and balance for extended aging.