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. Explosive nose of red fruits, roasted herbs, leather and garrigue. Medium to full bodied with just the right amount of acidity. Without question a big, modern CdP but everything seems to be in harmony here. Kirsch, framboise, Provencal Herbs and a hint of raisin on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Markedly superior to my last bottle several years ago. Best over the next 4-6 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.