2019 St Joseph
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Tasting notes
From what was a fantastically concentrated, ripe vintage for the Northern Rhône, this Saint-Joseph has classic tones of bright blackberry, blueberry fruit interspersed with cooler, olive tapenade, light gamey notes and peppery spice. A step up on even the 2018, this is a beautiful wine, the freshness and subtle tannins reminiscent of the 2015. The palate is medium-bodied, dominated by primary forest fruit flavours. There is a touch of iodine, with ferric mineral notes, liquorice and grilled herbs all in the mix, adding nuance to this beautifully balanced Syrah. Overall, it is a really vibrant wine with great energy. The velvety yet juicy, succulent tannins bring nice shape to the palate, making it almost ready to drink, but will hold its form for at least five or six years. The wine is raised in a combination of pièce and demi-muid for between 12 and 18 months, with around 30% new oak.
Critic scores
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Opaque garnet color. Mineral-accented blackberry, cherry and olive aromas show fine definition and are complemented by floral and exotic spice flourish. Densely packed but lively dark fruit preserve, candied violet, olive and cracked pepper flavors show fine detail and become sweeter on the back half. Finishes with smoky mineral cut, harmonious tannins and strong, floral-dominated persistence.
About the producer
The little-known Domaine Jean-Claude Marsanne, based in the heart of Saint-Joseph in Mauves, makes some of the Northern Rhône’s best-value wines.