2015 Clefs des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape Southern Rhône - 750mL

Description: Step into the revered world of French winemaking with the 2015 Clefs des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This exquisite red wine from Southern Rhône stands as a testament to the rich heritage and meticulous craftsmanship of the region. Bottled at 750 mL, each sip offers a journey through the lush vineyards of one of France's most celebrated appellations.

History: This wine, produced in the renowned southern Rhone valley appellation, is a single estate, fully matured, and rich with a spicy, full-bodied, and sweet mid-palate. It has soft tannins that finish off the experience. The low yields of Grenache grapes may explain why these famous wines age so beautifully. It pairs perfectly with Côtes de porc aux olives, Viandes rouges grillées, and Lièvre à la royale. The peak drinking window for this wine is until 2040. In the 14th century, the Popes built a residence in Châteauneuf, far from the drama of Avignon's court. Pope John XXII fell in love with Châteauneuf wine and expanded the vineyard, ensuring its reputation. 

Tasting Notes: The 2015 vintage radiates a robust character, showcasing a deep ruby color and a complex bouquet of ripe red and black cherries, spiced plums, and hints of earthy garrigue. On the palate, it unfolds layers of dark fruit, licorice, and savory spices, underpinned by smooth tannins and a well-rounded acidity that leads to a persistent, elegant finish.

Vinification: Produced from a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, the grapes are meticulously selected and harvested at peak ripeness to ensure concentrated flavors. Traditional winemaking methods are employed, with fermentation in stainless steel followed by aging in French oak barrels to develop its distinctive smoothness and depth.

Expert Reviews:

• Wine Spectator: 92 points - "A vivid and rich tapestry of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, offering layers of flavors and a fine balance that predicts a bright aging potential."
• Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 94 points - "An excellent example of the 2015 vintage, this Châteauneuf-du-Pape marries power with elegance, embodying the best of the appellation."

• "The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape is a floral, elegant, unbelievably complex wine. Roses and violets, cherries and stone fruit, cinnamon and allspice and more are carried across the full-bodied yet almost weightless palate, finishing in a swirl of silky tannins and lingering spice. Drink it over the next two decades."  97 Points - Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate

• "Tasted on three separate occasions, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Paul-Vincent is a classic, elegant, and incredibly complex style of wine reminiscent of a Grand Cru Red Burgundy (Chambolle-Musigny?). Black raspberries, blueberries, incense, pine resin, dried orange and exotic floral notes give way to a medium to full-bodied, ethereally textured 2015 that has moderate tannin, beautiful purity, and a seamless finish. I compared this to an improved 2005 last year when I tasted it from barrel, but I’m not sure that comparison holds today, and I struggle to come up with another similar vintage. Nevertheless, this is a beautiful wine." 95 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

Food Pairing Suggestions: This wine pairs splendidly with hearty dishes such as beef bourguignon, lamb shoulder, or truffled mushroom risotto. It is also an excellent complement to a cheese board featuring aged Brie, Manchego, or Gouda.

Why Choose Cellar Link Auctions: At Cellar Link Auctions, we pride ourselves on offering only the finest wines from around the globe, each stored under ideal conditions to ensure they reach you in perfect state. The 2015 Clefs des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape is no exception, promising not only a delightful tasting experience but also the potential for significant maturation in your personal cellar.

Enhance your collection with this stellar vintage from Clefs des Papes, available exclusively at Cellar Link Auctions. Whether enjoyed today or aged for future enjoyment, this Châteauneuf-du-Pape is sure to impress with its complexity and elegance.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Clefs du Pape serve at a temperature of 16°C. This wine will pair perfectly with the following dishes: Côtes de porc aux olives, Viandes rouges grillées, Lièvre à la royale.

Peak drinking window: drink until 2040