Domaine Auguste Clape Saint-Péray Blanc Rhône Valley, France
If you love the rich, full-bodied, complex white wines of the northern Rhône Vally (Condrieu, anyone?), wander off the beaten path to Saint-Péray. Located in the southernmost part of the Rhône Valley, this very small appellation is mainly known for its sparkling wines. Its still white wine production is very small, but those made by today's iconic producer are nothing short of phenomenal.
Domaine Clape was established by August Clape in the early 20th Century, when a wine strike forced him to leave his native Languedoc and start over. He settled in the northern Rhône and rebuilt parcel by parcel. A négociant for many years, he was the first to make his own wine and paved the way for others in the area. He took a non-interventionist approach to his craft and had an unflinching dedication to honoring the marriage of varietal and terroir. Today, his son, Pierre-Marie, and grandson, Olivier, carry on his legacy with honor and integrity.
The 2023 Domaine August Clape Saint-Péray Blanc is a blend of 90% Marsanne and 10% Roussanne sourced from 40+-year-old vines grown in soils of clay and granite. Fermented and aged for 22 months in a combination of stainless steel and foudre, it tantalizes the senses with aromas of honeysuckle and citrus zest beautifully woven with hints of plums and crushed stone. The full-bodied, lushly-textured palate coats the mouth with fleshy, ripe flavors of white peaches, pears, and apricots. The richness is kept in check by a vibrant, cool-climate-like acidity and delicate notes of fennel, spices, and wet stone. The finish is long, pure, and refreshingly dry, leaving a lingering, perfumed mineral impression.
Check out the press!
94 Points, Decanter:
“Glistening golden hue. A sensational nose of apricot preserve, honey, yellow plum and Herbes de Provence. The palate is rounded and almost oily in texture, yet very refined and smooth, with balanced freshness and continuous fruit intensity leading to a long finish."
94 Points, James Suckling:
"Mirabelle plums and acacia blossoms are woven into the fabric of this creamy and elegant St.-Peray. Flinty freshness right through the very long, pure finish. Should age really well. Drink or hold."
92 Points, Wine Advocate:
“The 2023 Saint-Péray has a completely seductive bouquet of white flowers, honeysuckle, anise and spices. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive with a round, fleshy profile, it's long and ethereal, concluding with a delicate, perfumed finish."
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13%
Producer Name: Domaine Auguste Clape
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Saint-Péray, Rhône Valley
Vintage: 2023
Grape Varietals: 90% Marsanne, 10% Roussanne
Wine Style: Full-Bodied White Wine
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass Burgundy bottle
Closure Style: Cork
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