Clos des Papes (Paul Avril)

About Clos des Papes (Paul Avril)

Clos des Papes is a family estate in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in the southern Rhône Valley. The Avril family has been involved in viticulture in the area since the early nineteenth century. Paul Avril played an important part in establishing the estate’s modern reputation, and it is now run by Vincent Avril. Despite its name, Clos des Papes is not a single walled vineyard: its holdings are a collection of parcels across the appellation. The name instead recalls Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s historic connection with the papal court at Avignon.

The estate draws on the varied soils that define Châteauneuf-du-Pape, including rounded stones, sand, clay and limestone. The Mediterranean climate delivers abundant sunshine and ripeness, while the mistral helps keep vines dry and healthy. Old vines are an important part of the picture. Grenache is central to the red blend, supported by Mourvèdre, Syrah and smaller proportions of other permitted varieties. The white wine is also a broad blend of traditional local white grapes.

Clos des Papes essentially releases one red and one white Châteauneuf-du-Pape rather than a range of separate terroir bottlings. The red is usually classical in profile and layered in character: ripe red and dark fruit, garrigue herbs, pepper, earth and, with bottle age, savoury leathery nuances. It combines depth with freshness and structure, without making new oak the dominant voice. The white is generous but not heavy, showing citrus, stone fruit, floral notes and spice; it can also evolve impressively in bottle.

The estate is especially valued for a traditional expression of the appellation in which balance and complexity take precedence over sheer extraction. Young red bottles often benefit from decanting and suit substantial, herb-scented food. In strong vintages, the red has clear capacity for extended ageing.

• The Avril family has been established in Châteauneuf-du-Pape since the early 19th century
• Vincent Avril runs the estate
• Vineyards are spread across several parcels within the appellation
• Rounded stones, sand, clay and limestone shape the terroir
• The estate produces one red and one white Châteauneuf-du-Pape
• The red can age for a long time in favourable vintages