The 2020 Clos Saint-Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Sanctus Sanctorum is a distinguished red wine from the Southern Rhone region of France, specifically from the Chateauneuf du Pape appellation. This proprietary blend, which is notably a single varietal Grenache, is cultivated from a single parcel of very old vines in the La Crau lieu-dit. The wine is aged in equal parts of new and once-used demi-muids, contributing to its unique profile.
Jeb Dunnuck, in his review dated November 11, 2022, awarded this wine an impressive score of 98. He described it as offering "a brilliant array of kirsch liqueur, blackberries, herbes de Provence, and scorched earth, with just a kiss of classy background oak." Dunnuck emphasized the wine's intensity, depth, and complexity while maintaining flawless balance. He noted it as "a singular expression of old vine Grenache that I wish every reader could taste," highlighting its potential to evolve over the next two decades.
Wine Spectator also provided an excellent review, giving the wine a score of 97 on January 1, 2022. They found it "very alluring, and while densely packed, this is very silky and refined in feel." The review mentioned notes of raspberry, cherry, and plum puree intertwined with sandalwood, incense, and rooibos tea. The publication described the finish as exotic, with lingering sweet wood spice hints, suggesting it is approachable now but has no rush to be consumed, with a recommended drinking window through 2040.
Vinous, with a review by Nicolas Greinacher on June 29, 2023, awarded the wine a score of 96. Greinacher noted the wine's complex perfume, featuring "crushed violets, freshly-cut blood orange, ripe red and black fruits, cloves, licorice, mint, dried herbs and crushed rocks." He praised its well-integrated 16% alcohol level, velvety tannins, and full-bodied, layered palate, concluding with a bold finish.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, reviewed by Joe Czerwinski on October 12, 2023, also rated the wine at 96. Czerwinski highlighted the wine's "kaleidoscopic" fruit profile, with cedar and menthol notes accenting black cherries, blackberries, and raspberries. He described the wine as full-bodied, lush, and velvety, with a long finish.
In summary, the 2020 Clos Saint-Jean Chateauneuf du Pape Sanctus Sanctorum is a highly regarded wine with notable complexity, depth, and balance, praised by multiple reviewers for its alluring and refined character. With its potential for long-term aging, this wine stands as a remarkable expression of old vine Grenache.