Clos Saint Jean was founded in 1900 in Chateauneuf du Pape and is still a small, family-run operation. The estate produces 12,500 cases annually. Brothers Pascal and Vincent Maurel run the business. Clos Saint Jean primarily produces Chateauneuf du Pape, including the Vieilles Vignes and several special cuvees including the Combe des Fous and Deus-Ex Machina. In 2002, Philippe Cambie was hired as consulting oenologist.
Blood red in color. 14.5% ABV. Big, savory nose of red and black fruits, Provencal herbs and leather. Rich and full bodied with sweet fruits and ample acidity. Exceptionally well balanced. Raspberries, plum sauce, kirsch and garrigue on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. More restrained than I expected from this producer in the warm ’07 vintage. Aging beautifully. Best over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 92 points.
The 2016 version is available at retail and is attractively priced around $50 per bottle. This is the best vintage for CdP in recent memory and this wine is always a good value. I’m a buyer.