Clos Saint-Jean La Combe des Fous Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2023

“Based on a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and the rest Cinsault and Vaccarèse, the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Combe des Fous delivers incredible elegance, with black raspberries, spring flowers, pepper, Provençal spices, and meaty nuances all shining here. Medium to full-bodied, it has a gorgeously layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel, plenty of tannins that are ripe and perfectly integrated, and a great finish. Give it just 2-4 years and drink over the following 15 years. This beauty is all about finesse and elegance paired with remarkable power and density. Drink 2027-2042.”

“The voluptuous, plush profile is nicely supported by well-sculpted tannins, giving this ripe red a solid backbone and good balance. Cherry and licorice cruise alongside warm spices, grilled anise and iron shavings along the lengthy, decadent finish. Delicious. Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault and Vaccarèse. Drink now through 2042. 380 cases made, 54 cases imported.”

“The 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Combe des Fous is at eye level with the gorgeous 2020 1 tasted two years ago unwinding with prominent red cherry compote, fresh violets, dried herbs and a flicker of orange blossom. Perfumed and sexy, the full-bodied 2023 packs the hallmark Clos Saint-Jean style through stunning density and concentration, yet neatly carries sufficient vitality to balance all that substance. Spicy and floral, the 2023 is such a scrumptious La Combe des Fous.”