Clos Des Papes   Chateauneuf du Pape

2013 Chateauneuf du Pape

By Clos Des Papes

2013 Chateauneuf du Pape from Clos Des Papes, Rhone, Rest of the World

The superlative 2013 Chateauneuf du Pape from Clos Des Papes embodies a vintage that shines amidst a string of well-celebrated Southern Rhone harvests. Standing as proof to the typical truism that adversity for grapes leads to joy for the gourmand, this vintage demonstrates the consequence of a year distinguished by a relatively cool summer and late, rich harvest.

 

The Fruit of Exceptional Circumstances

Against all expectation, the savoury character bestowed under these unusual climatic conditions revealed a depth, complexity, and longevity within the 2013 Chateauneuf du Pape that rivals even celebrated vintages. Its power lays in its subtlety, each sip unfurling with an fresh intensity which positions it as an indisputable focal point in any discerning wine investment portfolio.

 

Elegance in reach of patience

This marvellous offering from Clos Des Papes unites Grenache's opulent spiced-red fruit profile with Mourvedre's potent vibrancy and Syrah's gravitas. The result is an elegant combination of liquidity and structure, presenting an intriguing spectrum ranging from kirsch to garrigue, underlined with tertiary hints of leather and tobacco.

 

2013: A Vintage of Resilience

The 2013 Rhone season was particularly challenging for winemakers. The cooler than average summer followed by a delayed harvest resulted in a significantly smaller yield. However, Clos Des Papes rose to the occasion, creating a Chateauneuf du Pape that articulates grace under pressure with unparalleled elan.

This rare quality of the 2013 Chateauneuf du Pape from Clos Des Papes reveals an enriching narrative of resilience and innovation. When considered as an investment, it merits a place in every discerning collection not just for its enticing palate but also for the compelling story it tells of the artful adaptation to climatic challenges that so distinctly set it apart.

Current market price

$1,260.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

63.33

Scores and tasting notes

92

Tasted out of bottle, the 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape comes from miniscule yields of 13 hectoliter per hectare (25-39 hectoliters per hectare is normal for the appellation), and hits 14.8% natural alcohol. It has a darker, slightly more concentrated, austere feel than the 2014, and has ample kirsch, blackberry, peppery and crushed rock-like aromas and flavors. Vincent commented that he thinks this vintage will shut down after a few years in bottle, so if you’re going try one in its youth, find the corkscrew. While obviously not a great wine, it’s certainly outstanding and has considerable charm and elegance. It will also have 10-15 years of overall longevity.

Jeb Dunnuck - The Wine Advocate, 29 October 2015

Vintage performance