Domaine Auguste Clape "Renaissance" Cornas 2023
(Northern Rhone, France) 750mL - [JS 95-96] [JD 91-93] [VM 91]

About the Winery:
In the world of wine, there are many good winegrowers. However, there are only a very select few who are truly great, and Auguste Clape will go down in history as one of the greats. A proud and uncompromising pioneer of fine winemaking in the Northern Rhône, his Syrahs from the cru of Cornas have earned their place among the most celebrated wines of France.  Domaine Clape is legendary in the Northern Rhône. This world-class estate was the first in Cornas to estate-bottle Syrah and sell it under their own name.

Domaine Clape’s eight hectares of stacked terrace vineyards, scattered across the Rhone Valley, grow on predominantly granitic soils, dedicated to Syrah-based wines vinified in a traditional style. 

About this Wine:
‘Renaissance’ is rich and full-bodied, yet approachable in its youth. The wine shows smoky notes of dark plums, overripe black cherries, wet stones, and herbs. Open in a few years-- it’s worth the wait!

Technical Information

Varietal: 100% Syrah
Vine Age: 4UP TO 30 yrs
Soil Type: Granite
Vineyard Area: 1.2 ha

Viticulture & Vinification:

• A blend of fruit from younger vines

• Aged 22 months in 6hL to 12hL foudres

• All wines are harvested by hand, sorted and are not de-stemmed

Ratings & Reviews

95-96 Points - James Suckling:
"A bright, really expressive Cornas that leaps out of the glass. Violets, black cherries and fresh herbs on the nose. Terrific freshness and youthful energy are married to a precisely contoured tannin structure, propelling you across the palate at a very brisk clip. Extremely long, straight finish. Drink from release." (Apr 2025)

91-93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"Still resting in foudre and scheduled to be bottled in November, the 2023 Cornas Renaissance shows a ripe, forward, supple, medium-bodied style. It offers classic red, blue, and black fruits with violet and peppery nuances, good balance, and outstanding length. This classic, undoubtedly outstanding effort will shine for 10-15 years." (Feb 2026)

91 Points - Vinous Media:
"After a production hiatus in 2022, the 2023 Cornas Renaissance marks a rock-solid comeback, opening with aromas of blackberry, black cherry, cured meat and stemmy notes. Bottled just two weeks before my visit, the medium-bodied 2023 is gently framed by ripe tannins, emphasizing freshness and finesse over power through flawless, overall balance. (Drink between 2026-2036)" - Nicolas Greinacher (Jan 2026)