2012 M. Chapoutier Saint-Joseph Le Clos
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Tasting notes
Saturated ruby. Strongly perfumed aromas of blackberry, blueberry, violet, black cardamom and minerals. Seamless, expansive and sweet on the palate, offering deeply concentrated dark berry compote and cola flavors and a hint of star anise on the back half. Gains richness with air and finishes extremely long, with building tannins and clinging mineral and floral notes. Here's a Saint-Joseph that can stand up to plenty of Hermitages.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
In complete contrast to the sexy, flamboyant les Granits, the tiny production 2012 Saint Joseph le Clos (which comes from a vineyard just a couple kilometers from the les Granits) is firm, tight and structured, with edgy notes of cassis, blackberry, powdered rock and ground herbs. Full-bodied, concentrated and rich, it needs 3-4 years in the cellar, and will have two decades of longevity. This is almost non-existent in the marketplace, but it's worth the effort to track down.
Bright purple. Fresh cherry and boysenberry aromas are complemented by cola, violet, candied licorice and smoky Indian spices. Broad and fleshy on the palate, offering sweet dark berry compote flavors energized by zesty minerality and cracked pepper. Surprisingly elegant for its size. Finishes with gently gripping tannins and strong spicy persistence
Bought and replanted 18 years ago. Clos near Tournon cemetery. Very savoury and direct. Pure fruit and pure open sunny north Rhône Syrah. Even smoother than Granits Rouge. Real lift and freshness on the finish after a very satisfying palate. (JR)