2013 Clos des Papes Offer
Walking the vineyards of the sunny Southern Rhône last summer,
one couldn’t help ask the question “where are all the grapes?”.
Coulure – the failure of flowers to become fruit – had a dramatic
effect in 2013 and for vignerons, who mainly rely on Grenache for
their blend, yields were often shatteringly small.
However, for Vincent Avril, with his formidable array of parcels
and varietals, the vintage was an opportunity to capture a vivid
rendition of the pebble-strewn landscape of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
via a different cast of characters. Grenache still takes the lead role,
even if a much ‘quieter’ 50% from a typical 65% of the blend.
The late-picked Mourvèdre (30%), understudied by some sensual
Syrah (15%), stepped into the spotlight brilliantly. The result is still
very much ‘Clos des Papes’ but that typical dark savoury richness
is coupled with real suavity, freshness and, thankfully, reduced
alcohol (an almost ‘quenching’ 14.8%). Less ‘oomph’ perhaps, but
wonderfully stylish and harmonious.
Other Chateauneuf-du-Pape rise to occasional brilliance, but, in our
opinion, no one comes close to Avril’s record of sheer quality,
consistency and ageing. Only last week, we drank the 1993; it was
still bright and utterly delicious, exceeding expectations. The unique
2013 will behave in a similar fashion, challenging the feted 2012 with
time. However, Vincent will want to forget the year, with miniscule
yields of 13.5hl/ha and a shortfall of almost 50,000 bottles…
It’s fair to say that there’s never been a recent Clos des Papes
red quite like the 2013 and, for long-term fans, the vintage is an
essential addition to your collection: one to serve alongside the
magnificent 2010 or 2012 in years to come.
The scarce Clos des Papes Blanc – normally dominated by white
Grenache – has had a makeover too, thanks to the ravages of poor
flowering. Clairette along with Picpoul and Bourboulenc (the latter
two almost 40% of the blend this year) came to the rescue, creating
a zesty, aromatic and floral Avril white. Juicy and precise, with
splendid energy to its tingling tangerine and orchard fruit flavours. I am certain this 2013 will age beautifully – they always do! – but it
was so outrageously delicious when we tasted in the summer, I’d be
tempted to pull some corks when it first arrives. Sadly quantities are
once more very restricted, on allocation only, as the red above.
On allocation only
Price in-bond case
2013 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge
6 BOT T L ES
£235.00
2013 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge
12 BOT T L ES
£470.00
2013 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge
6 M AGN U MS
£480.00
2013 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc
6 BOT T L ES
£180.00
2013 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc
12 BOT T L ES
£360.00
Double-magnums (300cl) are available upon request.