La Revue du Vin de France (98 points):
"Its deep nose evokes spices, with already a sensation of creaminess and richness on the nose. The palate echoes it with a pulpy substance carried by ripe and fatty tannins. If you like the thickness and density of its fruit, there is righteousness in its heart of mouth but also the energy of a very living fruit."
Wine Spectator (96 points):
"Elegant, stunning and approachable, with seductive aromatics of smoked incense and red tea, plus floral high notes, followed by a well of cassis, licorice and red currant coated in graphite. Dusty in feel, with fine-grained tannins bringing structure and textural complexity. An iron element lingers on the very long finish. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2035."
Robert Parkers Wine Advocate (96 points):
"Very different from the 2022 vintage, the 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape from Clos des Papes is deeper and more powerful. It reveals delicate aromas of flowers, iris, lilac and spices, intertwined with lovely peppery notes. Full-bodied, concentrated and dense, it displays the estate’s characteristic tension but with perfectly controlled power that brings a richer, solid core of fruit. The finish is long, ethereal and peppery, complemented by velvety tannins that promise graceful aging. It has a real potential to improve in the cellar."