Clos St. Jean Combe des Fous 2016

Clos St. Jean Combe des Fous 2016 is a powerful yet seductive Châteauneuf-du-Pape red that shows why 2016 is considered one of the great Rhône vintages. Sourced from a single, windswept hillside parcel, it marries old-vine concentration with a remarkably velvety texture. This cuvée has become a modern benchmark in the appellation, prized for its depth, precision and ability to age gracefully.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, Combe des Fous 2016 is deep, dark ruby with a glossy, almost opaque core that hints at its intensity. The nose is immediately expressive: ripe plum and black cherry are layered with cassis, sweet spice, garrigue herbs (thyme, lavender, rosemary), and a distinct whisper of campfire smoke from the Syrah component. Subtle notes of licorice, cocoa and crushed violets emerge with air, adding complexity. On the palate, this is full-bodied and richly textured, with a plush, almost creamy mouthfeel that remains beautifully balanced by fresh acidity. The 60% Grenache delivers layers of lush, dark berry and plum fruit, while 20% Syrah brings structure, spice and that smoky, savory edge. The 10% Cinsault and 10% Vaccarèse contribute lift, aromatic complexity and fine-grained tannins. The finish is long, smooth and persistent, echoing black fruit, warm spices and mineral notes. Drinking wonderfully now with a good decant, it has the structure and concentration to evolve gracefully for 12–20 years from vintage in a good cellar.

Production
Combe des Fous comes from a single elevated site in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where old Grenache vines cling to a stony hillside of classic Rhône terroir—galets roulés (large rounded stones), clay and sand that store daytime heat and release it at night, promoting perfect ripening. The mistral wind helps keep the vines healthy and concentrates flavors. Grapes are typically harvested by hand at optimal maturity, with careful sorting to ensure only the best clusters are used. The blend is approximately 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% each Cinsault and Vaccarèse. Vinification emphasizes both purity of fruit and textural richness: Grenache is usually raised in concrete or large neutral vessels to preserve its vibrant character, while the Syrah is aged in wood, contributing structure, spice and that subtle campfire smoke note. The result is an intense yet refined wine that reflects its singular site.

Food & Serving
This 2016 Combe des Fous is a natural partner for rich, savory dishes: think slow-braised lamb shank with rosemary, beef short ribs, duck breast with cherry or plum sauce, or game such as venison and wild boar. It also pairs beautifully with truffle dishes, mushroom ragù, and aged hard cheeses like Comté or a well-matured Gouda. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to showcase both its aromatics and structure. Decanting is strongly recommended—give it 1–2 hours in a carafe to allow the layers of fruit, spice and smoke to fully unfurl, especially in its youth.

Producer
Clos St. Jean is one of the leading estates of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with family roots in the region stretching back to the early 20th century. The modern chapter of the domaine is driven by the Maurel family, particularly brothers Vincent and Pascal, who have elevated Clos St. Jean into a reference point for rich yet nuanced southern Rhône reds. Working closely for many years with renowned oenological consultant Philippe Cambie, they pioneered a style that marries old-vine Grenache concentration with impeccable balance and polish. Their top cuvées, including Combe des Fous, are now sought after worldwide and have played a key role in cementing Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s reputation for producing some of France’s most compelling and ageworthy red wines.

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