Bottle Notes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape

2011 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. 16% ABV. Savory nose of red fruits, saline, garrigue and roasted herbs. Medium body with ample acidity and notable balance. Warm and supple on the palate. Flavors of cherry, plum, olives and pepper with tremendous length on the finish. Super CdP from an unremarkable vintage that is just shining after more than a decade. Best over the next several years.

My rating: 93 points.

The 2018 version is available at retail and is attractively priced around $50 per bottle. I’m a buyer.

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