Domaine Auguste Clape, Cornas

Domaine Auguste Clape was founded in the 19th century, though at that time the land was farmed as a polyculture. Auguste Clape, spouse of the owners’ daughter, came to the domain in 1949, and it was decided that the estate should commit to wine production. They had just four hectares of vines and established a wine market which encouraged them to carry out their first bottling in 1955. Little by little, the reputation of the domain and its wines grew, expanding beyond France. In 1988, Auguste Clape brought his son into the business. He had learnt from the finest southern French domains like Tempier (Bandol) and Vieux Télégraphe (Châteauneuf-du-Pape). Together they adopted sustainable growing methods and traditional, single-parcel vinification. In July 2018, Auguste Clape passed away, handing the torch over to his son Pierre and his grandson Olivier. Today, they cultivate just over 8 hectares of Syrah, Roussanne and Marsanne, using vines that have an average age of 40. Modest in its production, these cuvées are keenly sought by enthusiasts for their sophisticated and powerful profile, their complexity, and their superb balance.

Auguste Clape’s Cornas is one of the best productions of the appellation, possessing richness, depth, and wonderful ageing potential. Whole bunch fermentation and ageing in old foudres means it can preserve the sobriety of the terroir of Cornas.