Domaine du Clos des Papes

Paul Vincent Avril at Domaine du Clos des Papes makes one of the most sought-after wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This Southern Rhône estate has been in the Avril family for three generations, gaining in reputation from wine critics and drinkers alike. Vincent studied his craft in Burgundy and trained at Château Mouton-Rothschild in Bordeaux before returning to the Rhône and his family domaine. Domaine du Clos de Papes takes its name from one of its vineyard plots which lies near the ruins of an ancient, 14th century papal castle. In total, there are 24 parcels throughout the appellation, with around 32 hectares planted to Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah. Vincent is known for both his particular winemaking methods and his absolute passion for his wines. His style is to work with low yields in the vineyards, completely destem the fruit, co-ferment varieties, and age exclusively in old oak foudres and the result are wines of incredible complexity. He makes just one red and one white wine, which he considers the best expression of his appellation. Both are met with huge demand and not enough to go around. His cellar is homage to fine wines from around the world, befitting of the legendary wines the Avrils continue to produce.