2009 Chateauneuf du Pape
By Clos Des Papes
2009 Chateauneuf du Pape from Clos Des Papes, Rhone
The opulence of the 2009 vintage from the frosty Terroir of Rhone is thoroughly expressed in this Chateauneuf du Pape from Clos Des Papes. A near-perfect season in 2009 blessed the vineyards with an exceptional harvest. Warm days, cool nights and a dry atmosphere played extraordinarily well into the hands of seasoned winegrowers, helping them produce wines incredibly rich in flavour and balanced in structure.
The dexterous marriage of exquisiteness and elegance
A delightful blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah and other indigenous varietals paint the very emblem of multifaceted complexity the Rhone Valley is renowned for. Layers upon layers of red cherries, dried herbs and aromatic spices are held together by enchanting notes of dark chocolate and smokey undertones providing an intoxicating overture.
The doe-eyed suprise of first experiencing this well-structured wine is soon replaced by a symphony that crafts its extraordinary tune with age. It's an illustrious exhibit of why investing in such fine vintages yields its return not only monetarily but also sensationally.
Celebratory weather, Commemorative wines
The climatic conditions played a paramount role in developing the terroir-driven characteristics of this wine. The 2009 summer shares remarkable similarities with that of 2005, echoing their profound impact on the resulting wines.
Within each savoured sip one might find a busy conversation between beguiling fruit, lively acidity and mellow tannins - almost reminiscent of a beautifully choreographed waltz. Dark berry fruit takes centre-stage while secondary notes like cocoa and black pepper give the necessary depth.
Admirers of Chateauneuf du Pape will find the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape from Clos Des Papes an unmissable indulgence. It possesses a profound abundance of everything that makes Chateauneuf du Pape wines great. Its rich, compelling array of flavours coupled with poised balance solidify its status as one of the grand investments in the world of fine wines.
Current market price
£840.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
49.41
Scores and tasting notes
Still relatively young tasting, the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape accents lush red fruit with hints of leather and Asian five spice powder. It's full-bodied and velvety, ripe, plush and long, a completely delicious taste experience that culminates in a lick of salted licorice. Owners should count themselves lucky to have purchased some, as this still has a decade or more of life ahead of it. As Paul-Vincent Avril said, "2009 is still a baby—decant it if you can."
Joe Czerwinski - The Wine Advocate, 30 August 2019