Cornas Renainssance
Domaine Clape
2015
Rhône
France
Auguste Clape produces unquestionably the finest wines in Cornas from his minute cellars located on the RN98 in the middle of the appellation. He has 11 acres of vineyards, the majority being superbly well sited on the steep hillside surrounding the village. The average vine age is high, with some being over 100 years old.
The wines are vinified traditionally and are then matured in wooden barrels for 18 months. No new oak whatsoever is used. Clape`s wines tend to be opaque in colour, impenetrable on the nose and densely tannic when young. However, with age, the tannins soften and they develop a seductive perfume of creamy, peppery, black fruits, leading on to complex flavours and nuances on the palate. The best examples can last for 20-30 years. Auguste, who is now in his late 60s, is gradually passing over the reins to his son, Pierre-Marie.
The 2015 Cornas Renaissance is a blend of two young-vine (under 25 years of age) parcels with a bit of Sabarotte to bind them together. Its fruit-forward and verging on jammy in this hot vintage, but it has a base of crushed stone and iron to ground it. It should drink well young.
PRESS AND REVIEWS
96 points Jeb Dunnuck
The 2015 Cornas Renaissance is sensational, and in the same league as the 2010, although it's made in much more forward, sexy and seamless style. While from the younger vines of the estate, we're still talking about 40- to 50-year-old vines, primarily in the Les Sabarotte and Geynale lieux-dits, made in the exact same way as the grand vin. Offering full-bodied richness, moderate acidity, and incredibly polished tannin, it's as drinkable as it gets, yet has plenty of muscle and fat. Huge notes of black cherries, blueberries, scorched earth, pepper, and game literally soar from the glass of this opaque purple/ruby colored gem that can be enjoyed anytime over the coming 20 years or more. (1/2018)
94 points Vinous
Bright purple. Heady, mineral-accented aromas of boysenberry, cherry cola, violet and olive paste; a smoky nuance expands in the glass. Palate-staining black and blue fruit flavors pick up notes of star anise and candied flowers as the wine stretches out. Powerful but surprisingly energetic, finishing with excellent clarity and sneaky tannins that emerge slowly. (JR) (3/2018)
92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2015 Cornas Renaissance is a blend of two young-vine (under 25 years of age) parcels with a bit of Sabarotte to bind them together. It’s fruit-forward and verging on jammy in this hot vintage, but it has a base of crushed stone and iron to ground it. It should drink well young. (JC) (12/2017)