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  Lot # 006
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The Wine Advocate
96 POINTS
Jeff Leve
95 POINTS
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Clos Des Papes Syrah 2003

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1 * Bottle
$175.00 $175.00 Per Bottle Reserve Price Not Met
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1 * Bottle
$175.00 $175.00 Per Bottle Reserve Price Not Met
Total: $175.00 + $29.75 BPA = $204.75
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Condition
Ullage - 5 / 5 | Label - 5 / 5 | Capsule - 5 / 5

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Clos Des Papes Syrah 2003 exemplifies the finest traditional winemaking practices of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, crafted by the esteemed Avril family who have long been stewards of the Rhône Valley’s distinguished legacy. This exceptional Syrah is a testament to their dedication to meticulous vineyard management and time-honored techniques, carefully preserving the unique character and terroir of one of France’s most celebrated appellations.

Hailing from a premium private cellar, the 2003 vintage captures the remarkable intensity and complexity synonymous with Clos des Papes’ Rhône blends. The warm, sun-drenched growing season of 2003 contributed to wines of extraordinary concentration and bold flavor profiles. This Syrah opens with an expressive bouquet teeming with vibrant dark fruit aromas such as blackberry and plum, complemented by nuanced peppery spices and subtle earthy undertones that enhance its layered sophistication.

The palate reveals a harmonious balance between power and elegance, with well-integrated tannins providing structure and a refined finish. This wine’s rich depth and spicy character make it a benchmark for the appellation, embodying the distinctive qualities of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s terroir. The Avril family’s unwavering commitment to quality is evident in every sip, delivering a Syrah that is both robust and gracefully poised.

Clos Des Papes Syrah 2003 is highly regarded among connoisseurs and collectors who value France’s most iconic wines. Its bold flavors, complex spice notes, and remarkable aging potential stand as a proud representation of Rhône Valley excellence. This vintage is a rare opportunity to experience a classic expression from one of the region’s most revered estates.

  • From one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most revered family estates, Clos des Papes has been crafting exceptional wines for generations, with the Avril family shaping the Rhône Valley’s reputation through meticulous vineyard stewardship and traditional winemaking.
  • A benchmark of the appellation, this celebrated Rhône blend showcases the depth, spice, and elegance that have made Clos des Papes a favourite among collectors and lovers of iconic French wines.
  • Sourced from a premium private cellar, the 2003 vintage benefits from a warm season known for producing concentrated and intense wines with excellent aging potential.
Variety
Shiraz
Country
France
Vintage
2003
Bottle Size
750ml (Bottle)
Closure
Cork
Cellaring
15 Plus Years
Organic Substance
None
Oak Type
French Oak
Style
Red


Lot # 006
System ID # 481199

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End Date

Reviews

One of the last estates to harvest in 2003—picking as late as September 25, alongside Rayas, in a year that was otherwise exceptionally precocious—Clos des Papes took an extraordinary gamble in waiting for full phenolic maturity, despite alcohol levels already reaching 14% by mid-August. The resulting wine is the 2003 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Clos des Papes, a remarkable achievement for such a torrid vintage, opening with a reductive, complex bouquet of menthol, licorice, dark fruits and spices. Full-bodied, dense and firmly structured, it's focused and somewhat wild in character, with firm, tightly wound tannins and a long, precise finish. Atypical for the estate yet superbly constructed, it's a testament to Paul-Vincent Avril's refusal to compromise on phenolic ripeness regardless of the vintage's extremes.
Concentrated, lush and full bodied, the powerful wine kicks off with jammy black cherries, pepper, figs and Provencal herbs. Not exactly delicate, this is more focused on the volume and stylistic character. There is a touch of dryness in the finish that is not off putting, but part of the wines character. There is no touch of heat or over-ripeness here. Still young, this is not your grandmother's Clos des Papes.

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