Jean-Baptiste Souillard Saint-Joseph 2023

Jean-Baptiste Souillard Saint-Joseph is the single blended cuvée in a range that otherwise runs to eight separate Saint-Joseph sites.

Saint-Joseph runs the length of the northern Rhône’s right bank, and Souillard works parcels from Saint-Pierre-de-Boeuf at the northern end to Saint-Jean-de-Muzols at the southern. Eight of his nine reds are single vineyards; this one is assembled chiefly from estate parcels in Sarras and Andance, in the centre of the appellation, from vines he puts at around forty years old. Most of those parcels lie high on the slope at about 300 metres, face east, and sit on some forty centimetres of decomposed granite over granite bedrock — a cool, poor situation that gives a tighter fruit profile and a more chiselled mouthfeel than Saint-Joseph typically shows. The winemaking is the same as for the single-site wines: spontaneous fermentation and maceration in stainless steel with a large proportion of whole bunches, then maturation in old wood so nothing is layered over the fruit.

Approachable now, at its best in three to five years and sound for a dozen. Serve at 16-18°C with roast lamb, grilled quail or a smoked eggplant salad.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.