Clos Saint-Jean Deus-Ex Machina Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2023

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One of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most legendary estates, Clos Saint-Jean helped change the region forever when they began bottling estate wines over a century ago, before CdP officially existed. We’re over the moon to have their 98-point 2023 Deus-Ex Machina, a “head-turner” that “packs flawless drive and energy,” according to Vinous. For an incredible price and free shipping on just two bottles, you deserve to make a few of these yours! 

“Deus Ex Machina” is a literary phrase for when something serendipitously interrupts a typical course of action in a plotline. In the case of this wine’s first vintage (2003), it was the unconventional decision of Philippe Cambie and Vincent Maurel to harvest at the end of September, several weeks after their neighbors. The choice would end up producing one of their most compelling wines across their always-impressive portfolio, and this 98-point 2023 vintage remains true to that trajectory.

This historic property is known for its modern, clean, and voluptuous style, and has long been considered one of the top producers in the world – and certainly on the short list of best of the best for Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This bottling is called “a concentrated, showy red, with a caressing texture” by Wine Spectator, and said to show “more mid-palate depth, richness, and length than just about every other wine in the vintage” by Jeb Dunnuck. With 60% Grenache aged in concrete and 40% Mourvèdre aged in new oak, it’s all at once fresh, juicy, and supple while still delivering mouthwatering power, tension, and concentration.

If you’re into dark, juicy cherries melted with black licorice, toasted almonds, black truffle, saddle leather, cedar, spearmint, and a vanilla cream-like thing on the finish… this is the wine of your dreams. There’s this poised, percolating acidity, alongside puppy-soft tannins, with a posh, everlasting finish that just keeps going. Simply remarkable and captivating wine that feels like you’re participating a bit in art and history as you enjoy it. Make sure you snag at least two for free shipping… and for maximum future joy!

FOOD PAIRINGS: This juicy, brooding, powerful wine needs something meaty and rich to hold up to it – let’s go for a grilled (well-marinated) flat iron steak, with chimichurri and roasted bell peppers on top… and herby, salty potato wedges on the side, of course.