Saint-Joseph

The vineyard of Saint Joseph stretches from Chavanay in the north to Guilherand in the south. It covers 23 municipalities in Ardèche and 3 municipalities in the Loire department, stretching some 50 kilometers along the right bank of the Rhône. The soils are light, composed of schist and gneiss on a granite base, mainly exposed to the south/southeast. Saint-Joseph has a moderate continental climate, with hot, dry summers and regular rainfall during the other seasons. Delicate and delicious, wines from the Saint-Joseph terroir were already being sold in the 16th century. They were enjoyed at the tables of the kings of France. In the 18th century, the Jesuits of Tournon gave the Saint-Joseph vintage its current name. Between 1956 and 1969, all the vineyards in this part of the Côtes du Rhône were grouped together and designated as a local AOC. Saint Joseph.

The production area covers approximately 1,000 hectares, with an annual production of around 35,000 hectoliters. The grape variety used for the Saint-Joseph red wines is almost exclusively Syrah, with possibly 10% Roussanne or Marsanne. It is these last two grape varieties that are used to make Saint-Joseph white wines. Red wines are traditionally vinified using long fermentation periods, aged for 10 months to 2 years in chestnut or oak barrels. For white wines, fermentation in open vats lasts 15 days and aging takes several months. This beautiful Saint-Joseph appellation shines thanks to houses such as Maison . Mr. Chapoutier, the Delas Brothers House, E. Guigal or the Jean-Louis Chave estate, the Ferraton Father and Son Estate.

Saint Joseph wine, an AOC with two colors

Saint Joseph, red wine

Syrah was the only grape variety used for Saint Joseph red wine. However, a relaxation of the AOC requirements now allows 10% Marsanne or Roussanne to be added to refine the strength of this wine. Syrah gives power to the wine, while Marsanne and Roussanne add finesse and elegance. Saint Joseph wine, with a dark color and spicy, peppery aromas, sometimes enhanced by a subtle hint of violet. When tasted young, it offers aromas of blackcurrant and even raspberry. A red Saint Joseph typically ages for 10 months to 2 years.

Saint Joseph white wine

Saint Joseph white wine accounts for only 10% of the appellation. The Marsanne and Roussanne grape varieties give this wine different characteristics. Marsanne enhances Saint Joseph white wine with a golden color and develops nutty aromas as it ages. This rustic grape variety produces powerful wines with medium acidity. Roussanne produces a Saint Joseph white wine with a straw-yellow color. In terms of aromas, it offers notes of summer fruits (apricot, yellow peach) and more subtle notes of honey and honeycomb. Roussanne produces a Saint Joseph white wine with a straw-yellow color. In terms of aromas, it offers notes of summer fruits (apricot, yellow peach) and more subtle notes of hawthorn, honeysuckle, and discreet hints of narcissus.

Taste a Saint Joseph wine

A Saint Joseph red wine

It is best enjoyed at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C. It pairs wonderfully with grilled red meats or game meats. It also goes very well with mature cheeses.

A Saint Joseph white wine

The optimal temperature for enjoying a Saint Joseph white wine Joseph white wine is between 54 and 59°F. As for food pairings, it is recommended to choose white meats or fish such as pike and turbot. It goes wonderfully with spicy dishes such as curry and strong-flavored cheeses such as Bleu d'Auvergne and Fourme d'Ambert.