Clos Saint Jean Deus ex Machina Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020 – “Divine intervention” from centuries-old vines

Deus ex Machina directly translates to “Divine Intervention” – and that’s exactly the feeling you’re left with when you taste this monumental 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Clos Saint Jean. A wine made from vines over 100 years old, where concentration, depth and complexity reach a level that few wines in the world can match.

The cuvée consists of approximately 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvèdre. The combination of extremely old vines and low yields results in a wine with enormous intensity, silky smooth structure and impressive ageing potential. This is one of the house’s most coveted wines – produced in limited quantities and only in the best vintages.

Vintage 2020 – Power and balance

2020 in the Southern Rhône offers both ripeness and freshness. The old Grenache vines deliver juicy, concentrated fruit and warm Mediterranean notes, while Mourvèdre brings structure, dark depth and spicy complexity.

Maceration is long – up to 35 days – to extract maximum color, aroma and tannic structure. Grenache is aged without the use of wood to preserve the pure fruit profile, while Mourvèdre is aged in 1-2 year old oak barrels, adding depth and refined spice.

Tasting notes

Aroma: Intense and dark with ripe blackberries, black cherries and crushed raspberries. Notes of licorice, garrigue, rosemary and black pepper.

Flavor: Powerful and concentrated with a velvety texture. Layer upon layer of dark fruit, cocoa and warm spices. Mourvèdre provides structure and firmness, while Grenache brings warmth and silky richness.

Finish: Very long and complex with ripe tannins, mineral depth and an elegant spicy finish that testifies to the wine’s enormous ageing potential.

The history of Clos Saint Jean

Clos Saint Jean can be traced back to the early 1900s and has been producing, bottling and selling its own wines since 1910. The big international breakthrough came in 2003 when Robert Parker praised the wines and placed the house among the elite of the Rhône Valley.

Today, the estate is run by Pascal and Vincent, who have 44 hectares of vineyards in Châteauneuf-du-Pape – including 1 hectare dedicated to white wine. With a focus on old vines, low yields and uncompromising quality, Clos Saint Jean is today among the most recognized producers in the appellation.

• Product name: Clos Saint Jean Deus ex Machina
• Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape
• Vintage: 2020
• Grapes: 60% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre
• Type: Red wine
• Quantity: 75 cl
• Contains: Sulfites
• Alcohol content: 15.5%