Clape Cornas 2001

98 points Matt Walls (Decanter): "An exceptional Cornas. At 19 years, this is at a lovely state of maturity, complex but still sappy. A perfect time to drink it, but no great hurry. Smoked meats and singed herbs, blackberry and juniper. Soft, yielding, and harmonious, still fresh and so long. Full of life and power it rises up on the finish and spreads its wings. A long, complex, saline style with perfect balance. Drinking Window: 2020-2028. (3/9/20)"

97 points Joe Czerwinski (Wine Advocate): "Clape's outstanding 2001 Cornas—while still at its apogee 20 years after the vintage—should nevertheless be consumed over the next several years, as notes of leather and dried leaves are impinging on the vibrant red fruit. Still full-bodied, almost creamy in feel, with a luxurious plushness in the mouth, it finishes long and harmonious. Just a terrific effort. Drink: 2006-2025. (1/20/22)"

95 points Wine Spectator: "This is really starting to develop nicely, with a racy, iron- and chalk-loaded spine that drives the mouthwatering red currant, damson plum and cherry pit notes. The long, driven finish lets the iron note take a lengthy encore. After two hours, this was continuing to open up while showing more polish around the edges.--Non-blind Clape Cornas vertical (2010). (6/15/10)"

95 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "The impressively youthful 2001 Clape Cornas presents a surprisingly dark color for its age, along with powerful, densely packed dark fruit, licorice, espresso and bitter chocolate character. A smoky mineral note sharpens and extends the long, smoky finish, which leaves cherry liqueur, candied violet and fruitcake notes behind. This is still a youngster and it’s definitely built for the long haul. Drink: 2021-2035. (Dec 2020)"