Stephane Rousset Saint Joseph 2017
From a one-half hectare parcel of 60 year-old vines in "Les Rivoires" on the lower slope in Tournon, a cool, late-ripening terroir with clay, sand and stones over firm granite. Aged 12 months, 30% foudre, 70% 2 to 5 year-old barrels. Although normally overshadowed by the Rousset's superb Crozes "les Picaudieres," the 2018 Saint-Joseph is a great success in this rather forward vintage - and was also vinified with a percentage of stems included to bring freshness and structure. The wine shows a dark black/red color with deep aromas of blackberry and blueberry liqueur with plum, licorice, earth and smoke - quite ripe but with nice brightness as well. The palate is quite dense and supple with ripe black fruits and hints of blueberry, dark chocolate, black olive and roast meats which continue in the long finish with pronounced mineral flavors and firm acidity.