Clos du Mont-Olivet Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Cuvee du Papet, Rhone, France 2019

Clos du Mont-Olivet is a true insider’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Lirac domaine. Often described as a beacon of traditionalism, the domaine makes Rhône wines that value freshness and elegance over bombastic prowess. Founded in the mid-16th century, the estate today is run by the dynamic and talented Thierry Sabon and encompasses parcels of mainly 60+ year old vines in the heart of Châteauneuf and Lirac. The wines are classical in style, with heady, complex aromatics, and garrigue-laden fruit that tastes of the stones that comprise the fascinating soils of the area. Thierry’s minimalist approach which highlights his terroir, has garnered him vast praise across the wine world, as Southern Rhône wines rarely speak so clearly and eloquently of their terroir. It has become clear over the many years that Thierry has been in charge of this classic estate, that the quality of Clos du Mont-Olivet has never been higher, and the value represented by their extraordinary lineup stands as a bastion to historic Châteauneuf and Lirac.

"The deeper hued 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Cuvée Du Papet checks in as a blend of 75% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre, and 10% Syrah that saw plenty of stems and aging mostly in foudre, with a small part in demi-muids and barrique. Straight-up sensational notes of blackcurrants, ground pepper, garrigue, leather, and graphite emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a concentrated, dense, powerful mouthfeel, building tannins, and a brilliant finish. It’s built for the long haul, and along with the 2016, it’s one of the finest wines I’ve tasted from this talented family. Hide bottles for 7-8 years and enjoy over the following 20-25+." Jeb Dunnuck | 99