Bottle Notes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape

2005 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 produces primarily 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.

Purple in color but starting to lighten at the edge of the glass. 14.5% ABV. The nose is all about raspberry liqueur, minerals and baking spice. The wine is rich and creamy with perfect acidity. Raspberry, kirsch, plums, pepper and garrigue on the palate. The 05’s are in a great spot right now and this wine is no exception.

My rating: 93 points.

The ’10 and ’11 are both available at retail. Both are great buys right around $50 or so.

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