2011 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape
SKU #1143437
96 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
One of the stars of the vintage and coming from absurdly low yields of 18 hectoliters per hectare, the 2011 Châteauneuf du Pape is a full-bodied, seamless effort that exhibits copious kirsch, ground pepper, dried flowers and underbrush as well as incredibly fine tannin, great mid-palate concentration and ample length on the finish. Relatively forward by this estate’s standards, it will be approachable at an earlier age than normal. Nevertheless, it will have 20+ years of evolution and is an awesome effort in the vintage. (JD)
(10/2013)
95 points
Wine Spectator
Delivers a beautifully pure and velvety note of cassis that holds sway over an ample range of blackberry paste, blood orange, singed apple wood and bergamot notes. The long finish shows succulent flesh and a buried iron accent. The grip is integrated, the acidity mouthwatering and the depth impressive for the vintage. *Collectibles* (JM)
(10/2013)
92-95 points
Jeb Dunnuck
As is normal here, I was able to taste the 2011 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape from numerous foudres and assorted blends, as well as from a single foudre that contains a rough equivalent of the final blend. While 2011 is certainly a more difficult vintage, this estate excelled and has a rare level of depth in concentration, with each sample showing solid intensity on the nose, medium to full-body, and a rich, concentrated mid-palate. I do not think it will compete with the ’06, ’07, or ’10, but will easily be a mid 90-point wine that will delight Clos des Papes lovers.
(9/2012)
93 points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Smoky cherry, red berry and potpourri scents show excellent clarity and pick up spiciness with aeration. Stains the palate with intense black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors, with a sexy floral pastille quality adding complexity. Finishes with impressive energy and thrust, firmed by fine-grained tannins and piquant minerality. Avril thinks that this will be an ager based on its balance. (JR)
(1/2014)
Jancis Robinson
Bricky ruby. If you had given this to me blind, I might initially have thought it was Pinot Noir – there is a red-fruit succulence and perfume that is really pretty, even if behind it there is greater richness and spice. Not Pinot-like on the palate. Really quite taut on the palate, with both tannins and freshness taking hold. There’s spice, a malty flavour and that fine, fruit-kernel bitterness that give a fresh and lively length. Complex and textured and very long. A wine to spend the evening with. Beautifully balanced. 18/20 points (JH)
(12/2017)
