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If we look at the half empty glass - or tank -, frustration, and even sadness, will overwhelm us : historically small yields in France. The lowest of the post-war years. Cellars are empty. Clearly, one has to state that climate hazards, methodically, worked against us this year, in a succession of definitely adverse events : an abnormally cool spring caused frost, then grape shatter, on all of Rhone cépages, and, more particularly, Grenache. This cruel Spring followed up on a dauntingly dry summer… In the end, the yields in juice are tragically affected. The Wine grower’s job becomes tightrope walker’s job… without a net. These realities being called to mind, if we now look at the half full glass - and it is our nature to be optimistic -, the words which will come to me are relief, and even… enthusiasm ! These very challenging conditions indeed gave birth to first juices of so brilliant a Quality as they do better than just console us : they succeed in enticing, the Vignerons and us… !
The vines had naturally little load : they reacted magnificently to the extreme conditions of the year. The plant was able to bring its fruit to maturity, without big constraint, in an optimal way. The Wines promise to be splendidly well-balanced !
Year climatically unbalanced, but Cuvées showing balance… the Bourgogne way ! This, by the grace of Old Grenache, which brought to the highest level the singular personality of the real Rhone Wine. Wines are scented, refined...
12 months in new and one old barrels.
Then 8 months in foudre - Tronçais and Allier
1/2 not destemmed
Expressive, mineral, smooth. A Wine of great distinction, which enjoys a perfect ba-lance, North-South balance… within the Appellation (which spreads on some fifty kilometers) !
13
BottlingNo fining, no filtration
CépagesSyrah, Serine : 100 %
Purplish crimson. Aromatic, mid intensity, sweet and salty wine without that much tannin. Quite accessible and not one of the most ambitious St-Josephs (not trying to be Hermitage). Very ‘pleasant’ for medium-term drinking.
Jancis Robinson
, 16,5/20
, 2018-10-22
Vivid purple. Displays powerful aromas of dark berry and cherry preserves, baking spices and incense, with a smoky nuance that builds as the wine gets air. Fleshy and broad on the palate but lively as well, offering intense blackberry, boysenberry flavors and a suave touch of candied flowers. Finishes seamless, juicy and impressively long, with an echo of violet and discreet tannins that add shape and subtle grip. (50% whole clusters)
Josh Raynolds
Vinous
, 92-93/100
, 2019-08-01
La Revue du Vin de France
, 16/20
, 2019-08-31
Guide Bettane et Desseauve des vins de France
, 17/20
, 2019-08-31
Focused, featuring a mix of cherry, red currant and bramble notes, mixed with light tobacco, savory and sanguine accents. Shows mouthwatering cut on the finish.
James Molesworth
Wine Spectator
, 92/100
, 2019-11-30
Already in the bottle, the 2017 St Joseph Vieilles Vignes blends fruit from Chavanay with smaller portions from Saint-Epine and les Oliviers. It's oral and herbal, with lovely peppery notes accenting a mix of cherries and blueberries. Medium to full-bodied, it's silky and supple and will be a joy to drink over the next several years.
Joe Czerwinski
Wine Advocate
, 91/100
, 2019-12-19