Clos Saint Jean Deus Ex Machina 2012 (750ML)

98 + JD / 98 WA / 96 WS

Always the biggest, baddest effort in the lineup, the 2012 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Deus Ex Machina is the normal split of 60% old vine Grenache and 40% Mourvèdre brought up in demi-muids. Deep, full-bodied, masculine, and concentrated, it has more structure than most in the vintage as well as awesome aromas and flavors of cured meats, black licorice, and chalky minerality, as well as loads of peppery dark fruits. Drink this gorgeous effort anytime over the coming 15-20 years. - Jeb Dunnuck

The 2012 Chteauneuf du Pape Deus Ex Machina is a blend of 60% Grenache aged in foudre (from close to 100-year-old vines) and 40% Mourvedre aged in demi-muids. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by incredible notes of cassis, roasted meats, licorice, toasted spice and a liquid rock-like minerality. Full-bodied, massive and concentrated, yet also seamless, elegant and incredibly polished, it flows onto the palate with building tannin, no hard edges and perfect balance. I wouldnt be surprised to see this merit a perfect rating in the future, and it should hit prime-time drinking around age 10, and have 20-25 years of overall longevity. Its one of the few wines to hit this level of quality in the vintage. Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate

Big but deftly balanced, with tiers of fig, blackberry, black currant and plum fruit supported by bakers chocolate, maduro tobacco, pepper, bay leaf and roasted alder notes. The intense finish lingers. Best from 2017 through 2034. 56 cases imported. James Molesworth, Wine Spectator