Buying options

Tasting notes

Tasting notes
Score 95/100 · Drink 2024-2036, Josh Raynolds, Oct 2021

Opaque ruby. A powerfully scented bouquet displays mineral-accented boysenberry and Chambord scents complemented by suggestions of pungent flowers, Indian spices and incense. Intense red/blue fruit preserve, cherry cola and fruitcake flavors show superb definition and silky texture. Comes off graceful despite its depth and finishes on a repeating floral note, displaying outstanding persistence and bright, mineral lift.

Critic scores

Critic scores
97
97/100

Average Score

98
98/100

Jeb Dunnuck

95
95/100

Josh Raynolds

More reviews and scores

97 points
Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
Score 97/100 · Drink 2020-2030, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate, Oct 2020

The 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape La Combe des Fous features electric aromas of garrigue, exotic stone fruit, pomegranate, black cherries and perhaps even a touch of rose petals. Full-bodied and rich without being overly weighty or dense, plush and velvety on the finish yet vibrant and complex, this magnificent effort should drink well for at least a decade. From vines planted in 1905, it's approximately 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Cinsault and 10% Vaccarèse.

98 points
Jeb Dunnuck
Score 98/100 · Drink 2020-2035, Jeb Dunnuck, Oct 2020

The star of the show in 2018 is the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Combe Des Fous, which has an incredible mix of complexity, power, and elegance that’s something to behold. Sporting a deep purple/plum color as well as a killer bouquet of blackcurrants, lavender, peppery garrigue, graphite, and white chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a seamless, multi-dimensional texture, incredible tannins, and a gorgeous finish. This is as good as 2018 gets, and while it’s already impossible to resist, it’s going to evolve for 15+ years.

About the producer

Clos Saint-Jean
View Producer

Product details

Grape Blend

Grenache/ Garnacha , Syrah / Shiraz, Mourvedre/Monastrell/Mataro

Colour

Red

Taste

Dry

Why F+R?
Store
Store your collection in our bonded warehouse, only paying tax and duty if or when you arrange delivery.
Deliver
We sell wines and spirits to customers and clients in over 60 countries and can organise delivery to almost anywhere on the planet.
Sell
With effortless listing, promotion to our extensive network and valuation advice, there's no easier way to sell wine and spirits in your collection
Get the best F+R delivered in your inbox
Subscribe to our emails
Ⓒ 1994-2026 Fine+Rare Wines Ltd