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. 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 the extraordinary lineup stands as a bastion to historic Châteauneuf and Lirac. (importer notes)

The 2021 Clos du Mont-Olivet Lirac is crafted by Clos du Mont-Olivet, a 16th-century estate with centuries of winemaking expertise in both Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Lirac. A blend of 65% grenache, 15% syrah, 15% mourvèdre, and 5% cinsault from 35-year-old vines, it is rich and lushly textured, with aromas and flavors of black cherries and cassis laced with accents of herbs, graphite, and the merest hint of pepper. Supple tannins and balancing acidity bring it to a long and glorious finish. Check out the press!

90 points, James Suckling:
Although this has some dark aromas, like black olive and dried herbs, it also has good red cherry fruit. Well-structured without being particularly dry or tannic on the medium-to-full-bodied palate. Enough acidity to keep it light on its feet. Plenty of licorice character at the generous finish. Drink or hold." 

ABV: 15.5%