The premiere Domaine of Cornas, Domaine Clape is synonymous with dark, opaque, brooding wines that are deeply tannic on release and almost impenetrable in the glass in their youth. With time in the cellar though, these components evolve into a seductive perfume of black fruits, white pepper and a complex spice flavours framed by softened tannins. The Clapes farm 11 acres of vineyards of very old vines among the best sites (Reynard, La Côte and Sabarotte) of the steep, cramped hillside of Cornas. The wines see only 18 months in old oak barrels after a traditional fermentation before being bottled unfiltered. The best examples of Clape Cornas can last 20-30 years and are a reference point for Shiraz producers across the globe.