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

96-99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "A normal blend of 60% Grenache (brought up all in concrete) and 40% Mourvèdre brought up in Burgundy barrels, the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape Deus-Ex Machina might be the wine of the vintage. Sporting a deep ruby hue (it's still semi-translucent) as well as a gorgeous perfume of darker berries, kirsch liqueur, black pepper, sandalwood, and smoked meats, it hits the palate with a massive, full-bodied, deep, powerful mouthfeel that somehow stays weightless and seamless, with ultra-fine tannins. It's going to shine with just a few years of bottle age (as will most 2023s) yet have two decades of overall longevity. (10/29/24)"

94-96 points Nicolas Greinacher (Vinous): "The perfumed 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Deus Ex Machina bursts from the glass with melted licorice, crushed rocks, toast, pressed violets and dried lavender. Less overtly powerful than the 2022, the elegant 2023 is shaping up to be yet another alluring Deus Ex Machina. It’s not at all a bulldozer—more like an iron fist in a velvet glove. Outstanding. Drink: 2028-2041. (Nov 2024)"