2018 St Joseph Rouge

Saturated violet color. Mineral-accented blackberry, cherry-cola and olive scents show fine delineation and an exotic spice nuance. Densely packed but lively as well, offering intense dark fruit preserve and olive flavors that are complemented by candied violet, espresso and cracked pepper notes. Shows excellent concentration as well as energy, closing with bright mineral cut, harmonious tannins and strong, floral-driven persistence.

The 2018 Saint Joseph is wonderfully floral and expressive, with notes of violets and garrigue playing off raspberry and cherry fruit. Medium to full-bodied, it's silky, fresh and long on the finish.

Tasted in components. #1, from Chaillets: shows expansive, ripe black and blue fruit, incense and potpourri qualities; olive paste and exotic spice notes build in the glass. Tightens up with air and takes on a zesty mineral nuance. #2, Dardouille: black currant, boysenberry, fruitcake and violet pastille aromas and flavors show sharp delineation and back-end thrust. Shuts down slowly and dusty tannins build. #3, from Baschesson: vibrant black and fruit scents show sharp definition and take on a suave floral note with air. Sweet and energetic, showing very good depth and strong, floral-driven persistence. This should be a less formidable wine than its infant 2019 sibling, but it sure won't lack for power or depth.