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.
Crimson in color 14.5% ABV. Awesome nose of red fruits, wet pavement, roasted herbs and flowers. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Concentrated, rich and classy. Kirsch, raspberry liqueur, plums and pepper on the palate. The finish is long with substantial tannins. Stunning now with the potential to improve further over the next several years. Terrific CdP from a great vintage. I can only imagine how good the Deus-Ex Machina must be. Best over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 94 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.