2016 Clos Saint-Jean Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes
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Tasting notes
The same Grenache-dominated blend as the base cuvée, the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes comes from older vines and is released solely for the US market. It’s a step up and is reminiscent of the 2010 with its depth, concentration, and purity. Black cherries, kirsch, licorice, and crushed rock notes all emerge from this ultra-fine, beautifully polished 2016 that does everything right. Don’t miss it. The Maurel brothers, along with rock star consultant Philippe Cambie, continue to knock it out of the park in just about every vintage, and since taking over control of the estate in 2002, they’ve yet to put a foot wrong. Even in the more difficult vintages, they’re able to produce charming, balanced, delicious wine, and in top vintages, they produce some of the greatest wines on earth. As I’ve written in the past, Clos Saint Jean is at the top of their game and producing some of the most singular, hedonistic and brilliant wines in the world. Also, I was able to taste a retrospective of the white Châteauneuf-du-Pape and came away thinking that current vintages might be some of the most under-the-radar, great whites of the appellation.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
The assemblage for the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is the same as for the "regular" Châteauneuf-du-Pape, at 75% Grenache, 15% Syrah and the rest a blend of Cinsault, Mourvèdre and Vaccarèse. The difference is that the Grenache in this wine was planted in 1905. And what a difference that makes. This is dark, plummy and rich but still vibrant and fresh. Full-bodied, velvety and intense, it boasts a super finish, again loaded with intriguing notes of licorice and spice. At around $50 (I've seen it online for as little as $40 to $45), this is a superb value in the overall scheme of CdP.
Lurid ruby. An expansive bouquet displays candied red fruit, potpourri and smoky mineral qualities, and a spicy nuance builds as the wine opens up. Palate-staining raspberry, cherry and floral pastille flavors show very good depth and clarity and no rough edges. The floral quality carries through a very long, sappy finish framed by smooth, well-knit tannins.