
Domaine Auguste Clape
Rhone
Address:
Domaine Auguste Clape, Avenue du Colonel Rousset, Cornas, France
Website:
Winemaker:
Olivier Clape
First Vintage:
1978
Accepts Visitors:
Special Request
PRESTIGE

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Summary
Domaine Auguste Clape is an esteemed winery situated in the heart of the Rhône Valley, in the small town of Cornas, France. As a beacon of traditional winemaking, this family-run estate has solidified its place in the annals of fine wine production with a focus on creating exemplary Syrah-based wines that are both robust and elegantly complex.
The history of Domaine Auguste Clape dates back several generations, with the winery taking its current name from its patriarch, Auguste Clape, who was instrumental in establishing the reputation of the Cornas appellation. The Clape family's winemaking heritage, however, goes far beyond Auguste, rooted in the rich terroir of Cornas and a deep respect for the land.
The vineyards of Domaine Auguste Clape are perched on the steep, terraced slopes of the Rhône Valley, benefiting from the optimal exposure to the sun and the distinctive microclimate of the region. These factors contribute to the perfectly ripe Syrah grapes that are the foundation of their wines. The soils are a unique mixture of granite and limestone, imparting a minerality that, when coupled with the low-yield, old vines of the estate, ensures that each bottle of Domaine Auguste Clape encapsulates the essence of its origin.
The winemaking process at Domaine Auguste Clape is a testament to the value they place on tradition. The grapes are harvested manually due to the challenging terrain, ensuring that only the best fruit is selected. Following the harvest, the grapes are fermented using indigenous yeasts, allowing the natural characteristics of the Syrah to shine through. In an age where modern techniques are often favored, the Clape family continues to use the time-honored method of aging their wines in large, old oak casks known as foudres, which contributes to the wines' exceptional aging potential without overwhelming the palate with new wood flavors.
Their flagship wine, the Cornas, is a quintessential expression of the appellation, known for its powerful structure and potential to evolve beautifully over decades. Alongside this, Domaine Auguste Clape produces a more approachable wine known as the Cornas Renaissance, which offers a more youthful and vibrant drinking experience, while still maintaining the depth and complexity the estate is celebrated for.
Visitors to Domaine Auguste Clape are greeted with the sense of timelessness, as the winery exudes a rustic charm that is enshrined within its ancient stone walls. The Clape family welcomes guests with warmth, ready to share their passion and knowledge of the wines and the terroir that makes them so distinctive. Tastings often provide an intimate glimpse into the soul of the winery, where each sip tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship and an unwavering dedication to excellence.
In every bottle of Domaine Auguste Clape, connoisseurs can expect a profound connection to the land and a taste of the enduring legacy of the Clape family—a legacy built on the foundation of authenticity, quality, and the unyielding pursuit of capturing the pure expression of Cornas Syrah.