2016 Chateauneuf du Pape la Combe des Fous
By Domaine du Clos Saint Jean
A Distinctive Vintage: 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape la Combe des Fous from Domaine du Clos Saint Jean, Rhone
Renowned for its tooling artistry in viticulture, Domaine du Clos Saint Jean's elegant exploration of the terroir of the Rhone Valley is aptly exhibited in the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape la Combe des Fous. This expression underscores their sensitivity to the climatic exigencies of 2016, which has resulted in a vintage that is compelling, perceptive, and agile in its evocation.
A Testament to Tradition meets Innovation
Domaine du Clos Saint Jean is secured in tradition but their deft navigation through the challenging weather patterns of 2016 makes this vintage an enchanting tapestry of innovation. Here, adversity genuflects before the artistry of man and nature alike; the surplus spring rains and late warmth have extolled an unparalleled freshness in this typically robust southern Rhone blend. What might be seen as impedimentary in other conditions became a boon here.
The Allure of the 2016 Vintage
The marked diurnal temperature variation during the growth season is manifest in the wine's diverse palette. The tannins are lithe, like silk draped over granite. There is an esoteric allure to the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape la Combe des Fous, dancing between an acute freshness and discernable minerality. The striking garnet hue whispers ancient secrets while the nose expounds with joyful medleys of red and black fruits with liquorice undertones.
Unique about this vintage is its notable Garnache and Syrah harmony - a complexity born of the unusually cool conditions that give it its defining elegance and exquisite balance. The overall structure of the wine suggests a remarkable ageing potential, making it an attractive proposition for any discerning wine investor seeking to capitalize on the enduring allure of Rhone darlings.
In Conclusion
A classic permutation of Rhone's iconic terroir, and demonstrative of the inimitable sophistication Domaine du Clos Saint Jean bestows upon every vintage, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape la Combe des Fous is a triumphant paean to winemaking. This vintage stands on the echelon of expressive, terroir-driven Southern Rhone wines with its enduring complexity and charisma.
Market price (GBP)
£740.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
49.33
Scores and tasting notes
From a single exposed hilltop parcel, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape La Combe des Fous is a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% each Cinsault and Vaccarèse. As the Syrah was aged in wood, there's a hint of campfire smoke here, plus layers of rich, voluptuous plummy fruit. Full-bodied and velvety in texture, this is more concentrated than even the Vieilles Vignes bottling, but it's not that much better in terms of overall quality or longevity.
Joe Czerwinski - The Wine Advocate, 31 August 2018