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 cuvées including the Combe des Fous and Deus-Ex Machina. The late Philippe Cambie was a consulting oenologist for this vintage.
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.
Crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Savory nose of red fruits, roasted herbs, garrigue and iron. Medium body with perfect acidity and balance. Relatively restrained compared to the run of vintages for this cuvée from 03-07. Kirsch liqueur, creme de cassis, blood and herbs on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Stunning CdP that captures everything I love about the Southern Rhone. One of the best 08’s I have had to date. Best over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 96 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.