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.
La Combe des Fous comes primarily from old vine Grenache planted at the start of the 20th century. The blend is usually 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Cinsault and 10% Vaccarese.
Ruby red in color. 14.5% ABV. Stunning nose of red fruits, iron, wet asphalt and garrigue. Medium body with medium acidity and exceptional balance. None of the roasted notes or port like qualities commonly found in wines of this vintage. Kirsch, roasted herbs, raspberry liqueur and blood on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. I honestly opened this wine with a little trepidation based on recent reviews but at least this bottle has aged brilliantly. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 95 points.
La Combe des Fous is expensive. The wine will set you back around $100 in top vintages. I look for deals that periodically arise on WineBid.