Domaine Auguste Clape Cornas 2021

Introduction to Domaine Auguste Clape

In the world of wine, there are many good winegrowers. However, there are only a very select few who are truly great, and Auguste Clape will go down in history as one of the greats. A proud and uncompromising pioneer of fine winemaking in the Northern Rhône, his Syrahs from the cru of Cornas have earned their place among the most celebrated wines of France. The Clapes have been vignerons for many generations, but the infamous grower strikes of 1906 and 1907 forced Auguste's grandfather out of the Languedoc and into the Northern Rhône to start anew from practically nothing. The Clapes rebuilt their fortunes, terrace by terrace, along the steep, western slopes of the Rhône River. For many years, the majority of growers in Cornas sold their fruit to négociants. Auguste was the first to bottle his own wine, which eventually paved the way for such contemporary superstars as Thierry Allemand. Without pretense or fanfare, Auguste, the former mayor of Cornas, was a stately picture of grace and magnanimity—a no-nonsense wise man who never rested on his laurels and sought to better himself and his wines each year until his passing in 2018 at the age of 93. Today, his son, Pierre-Marie, and grandson, Olivier, carry on his legacy with honour and integrity.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: In the glass, this wine reveals a deep garnet hue, nearly opaque at its core, with shimmering purple edges that speak to its youth and vibrancy. The colour alone hints at the wine’s density and the richness to come.

Nose: The bouquet is a heady mix of power and finesse, with a stunning array of aromas unfolding as it opens. Ripe blackberries, black cherries, and dark plums form the foundation, enriched by savoury notes of smoked meat, leather, and black olive tapenade. There’s a captivating floral lift—violets and lavender—that adds elegance, while mineral hints of crushed stones and iron echo the rugged Cornas terroir. Layered in are subtle accents of cracked black pepper, cedar, and a touch of cocoa, creating a nose that invites deep contemplation.

Palate: The palate is both commanding and refined, offering a full-bodied experience with remarkable depth and balance. Concentrated dark fruit flavours—cassis, blueberry compote, and black raspberry—burst forth, wrapped in layers of earth and spice. There’s a savoury complexity with notes of charred herbs, fennel seed, and liquorice, alongside a touch of espresso and smoked bacon. The tannins are robust yet finely polished, creating a firm structure that promises longevity. A vibrant acidity carries the wine, providing lift and clarity to its intense flavours, while a stony minerality underscores every sip.

Finish: The finish is epic in length, leaving a trail of black fruit, dried herbs, and a lingering smokiness. Over time, additional nuances emerge, like graphite, dark chocolate, and a whisper of anise. The wine finishes with a precise balance of richness and freshness, ensuring it’s as captivating in its final moments as it is at the start.

Overall: Domaine Auguste Clape Cornas 2021 is a masterpiece that epitomises the rugged charm and elegance of Cornas. It’s a wine of immense concentration and complexity, one that rewards patience and will evolve gracefully over decades. While approachable now with ample decanting, it is undoubtedly built for the long haul, making it a collector’s dream. Pair this showstopper with slow-braised lamb shanks, duck confit, or a hearty mushroom risotto to enhance its rich, savoury profile.