
Domaine Auguste Clape
Rhone
Address:
Domaine Auguste Clape, Avenue du Colonel Rousset, Cornas, France, Cornas, Rhone, France
Website:
Winemaker:
Olivier Clape
First Vintage:
1978
PRESTIGE
4

Summary
Where granite meets greatness, Domaine Auguste Clape commands 8.5 hectares of Cornas' most coveted terroir, crafting investment-grade Syrah that defines Northern Rhône excellence. As one of the largest single holders in this fragmented appellation, the Clape family transforms steep granite hillsides into liquid poetry that collectors worldwide covet.
Founded on unwavering tradition and family heritage, Domaine Auguste Clape represents four generations of winemaking mastery in the Northern Rhône. Under Olivier Clape's meticulous guidance, the estate maintains its reputation as one of the region's most influential producers. The family's commitment to hand-harvesting their precipitous vineyard sites and preserving time-honored techniques has earned them legendary status among Rhône enthusiasts. Their philosophy centers on expressing the raw power and elegance that only Cornas' unique granite soils can deliver, creating wines that age gracefully for decades.
The domaine's flagship Cornas represents the pinnacle of Northern Rhône Syrah, sourced from 5.5 hectares of prime granite slopes including parcels in the renowned Renaissance vineyard. These ultra-premium wines showcase intense minerality and structured tannins that develop extraordinary complexity over 20-30 years. Clape also produces exceptional Saint-Péray whites and Côtes du Rhône reds, all reflecting the family's uncompromising standards. Critics consistently award these collectible wines 95+ points, with the Cornas commanding allocation-only status among fine wine merchants. Annual production remains deliberately limited, ensuring each bottle represents the estate's pursuit of perfection.
Visiting Domaine Auguste Clape offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Rhône winemaking, though appointments are essential given the family's hands-on approach to every aspect of production. The modest cellar, carved into Cornas' granite hillsides, provides an intimate setting where Olivier personally guides tastings through their portfolio. The experience emphasizes terroir over theatrics, with vineyard walks revealing the dramatic slopes that make mechanization impossible. These exclusive visits, limited to serious collectors and trade professionals, showcase why Clape's wines are considered benchmarks for the appellation.
Secure your allocation of these legendary Cornas wines through The En Primeur Club's exclusive partnerships. Contact our wine specialists to arrange private tastings and cellar visits, ensuring access to one of the Northern Rhône's most sought-after producers in an unforgettable luxury wine experience.