Domaine Auguste Clape 2019 | Cornas

The Domaine Auguste Clape 2019 is a distinguished red wine hailing from the Cornas appellation in France’s Northern Rhône region. Produced exclusively by the Auguste Clape winery, this vintage is crafted entirely from Syrah grapes, reflecting the terroir’s deep commitment to traditional viticulture and winemaking practices.

The vineyards are situated on terraces of decomposed granite, locally known as "gores," which contribute to the wine’s distinctive structure and mineral character. Harvesting is conducted manually to ensure careful selection of the fruit. In the cellar, fermentation takes place in concrete vats or wooden casks, with precise temperature control maintained throughout the process to preserve the integrity of the fruit and expression of the site. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an extended ageing period of 18 to 24 months in old foudres (large oak casks). Notably, no new oak is used during this stage, allowing the wine to develop complexity without imparting overt vanilla or toast notes, thereby highlighting the pure expression of the Syrah and the granitic soil.

The resulting profile is a powerful yet elegant red that embodies the classic style of Cornas. It offers deep concentration balanced by the minerality inherent to the decomposed granite soils. The extended ageing in neutral wood contributes to a smooth texture and refined tannic structure, characteristic of Clape’s meticulous approach.

This vintage has garnered significant acclaim, receiving a score of 97 from The Wine Advocate (Parker), underscoring its quality. Overall, the Domaine Auguste Clape 2019 stands as a benchmark expression of Northern Rhône Syrah, defined by its purity, structure, and deep connection to its granitic terroir. It represents a serious wine that honors traditional methods while delivering exceptional depth and finesse.