This wine is 100 percent Syrah, as required for Saint Joseph red. The robe is nearly opaque, a deep velvety garnet. The wine is perfumed with a heady mix of the savory and sweet: raw meat, brambly fruit, violets, bitter chocolate, and volatile acidity. The palate has bacony savoriness and herbal-fruit flavors of black raspberries and thyme. The finish is somewhat dark and austere, suggesting espresso and cured meats.
Really a lot going on, and too young by at least five years. If you open it now, pair it with smoked and cured meats, aged cheeses, and other richly savory preparations.
2018 Faury Saint Joseph Rouge
14.5% ABV | About $35; imported by Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant
One of the few remaining affordable options that is also at the highest quality level.
It’s a house staple. Also the Blanc!
Haven’t tried the Blanc. Never been much of a white Rhône fan. Always willing to experiment.
My notes on the 2017 Blanc are here!