Clos des Papes Paul Avril CDP 2013 (OWC 12)

Description

By Wine Advocate in 2015 (WA92)
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. Drink 2015-2030

By Jancis Robinson in 2014 (JR19/20)
For the first time since 2001, Vincent Avril assembled the wine before putting it into his precious foudres because the crop was so small. The resulting blend is 55% Grenache (as opposed to the more usual 65%), 30% Mourvèdre, 15% Syrah (more than usual). After an extremely tricky year in the vineyard, the vinification was easy. Strict selection was needed because the vines were not in perfect shape. I tasted wines from a range of foudres and found them truly beautiful. It was the energy that was so remarkable after notably meaty, savoury aromas. Muscular, absolutely not heavy on the Grenache, these wines were very different from usual. Very ripe and cool but not skinny. Lovely polish but not over ‘made’. Admirably supple and refined. Even elegant. He says ‘burgundian’ (his highest form of praise). The final alcohol level is only an estimation. 14.5%.