Bottle Notes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape

2009 Clos Saint Jean Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes – Bottle Notes

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. Fantastic nose of red fruits, roasted herbs, garrigue and anise. Medium body with strong acidity. Exceptional balance. Tons of finesse. Kirsch, plums, leather and some pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. The base CdP at Clost Saint Jean and this version is just a beauty. Best over the next 2-4 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.

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