At a glance

Producer

Domaine Auguste Clape

Region

Cornas, Northern Rhône, France

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$75-$110

Tasting profile

Dark berry fruits, black pepper, leather, smoked game, and mineral notes dominate. Tannins still assertive but balanced by fresh acidity.

Evolution: Over the next 5-10 years expect development of earthy, smoked meat, truffle, and forest floor complexities with softening tannins.

At peak: Ripe fruit richness balanced by elegant tertiary aromatics, silky tannins, and prolonged finish.

Structure

Acidity

Bright and lively, supporting longevity

Tannins

Firm and grippy, typical of Cornas Syrah

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5-14.0%

Aging potential

20-30+ years from vintage for well-cellared bottles

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2054

Optimal window

2024 to 2057

Current status

Approaching early maturity with robust structure developing

Current condition

Still youthful with tannins firm but integrated; vibrant acidity preserves freshness

Cornas is well known for producing age-worthy Syrah with substantial tannin and acidity structure. The 2017 vintage offers ripe concentration with a classical profile that benefits significantly from extended cellaring. Peak drinking aligns with full integration of tannins and evolution of complex tertiary aromas expected roughly a decade after vintage.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted game birds, beef stew, dishes with black pepper and herbs de Provence, aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften firm tannins and allow opening of complex fruit and spice aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Minimal use of chemicals, hand harvesting, natural native yeast fermentation, moderate bottle weights reducing packaging impact

While Domaine Auguste Clape is not officially certified organic or biodynamic, it practices environmentally conscious viticulture with low chemical use and careful land stewardship. Traditional methods emphasize natural balance and minimal intervention, which supports soil health and biodiversity. Packaging is typical for Rhône wines, with modest efforts at sustainability. Overall, the domaine shows good sustainability awareness though without formal certification.