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. Heady nose of dark fruits, kirsch and lavender. Full bodied with medium acidity. Well balanced. Plush, opulent and fruit forward but in no way over the top. Raspberry liqueur, roasted herbs, chocolate truffles and pepper on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Not for everyone but right in my wheelhouse. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 93 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.