Clos Des Papes 2005 Chateauneuf Du Pape 75cl / 14.5%

A bottle of 2005 Châteauneuf du Pape from producer Clos des Papes, from the Southern Rhône's most celebrated appellation. Clos des Papes is a 32 hectare property combining 24 different parcels of vines, including one walled vineyard or 'clos' near to the pope’s castle, hence the name.

'This Clos des Papes is for me the best of the recent trio of classics from the 2005, 2004 and 2003 vintages. It combines terrific fruit with superb structure, and should rival the 1990 when it reaches maturity. It’s really tight now, but it’s packed with dark fig, currant, espresso, licorice and chocolate notes. Superfleshy but seriously structured, there’s layer after layer of sweet spice, fruit and minerality pumping through the finish, with lots of latent depth and power. Far more backward than the 2003 and 2004 on release, but considering this typically puts on weight as it ages, it should be a monster when it reaches its peak. Best from 2009 through 2030.' 98/100 James Molesworth, WineSpectator.com

This Clos Des Papes 2005 sold at our online auction for £55