Wines Saint-Joseph Vallet - Méribets - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Saint-Joseph "Cuvée Méribets" 2022 from Domaine Vallet is a classic red wine from the northern reaches of the Rhône Valley. Crafted primarily from Syrah, the emblematic grape of Saint-Joseph, this 2022 vintage promises freshness and youthful vibrancy along with typical varietal character. The terroir is defined by steep granite slopes, which encourage excellent drainage and lend a distinct minerality to the wine. While winemaking methods can vary, producers in this region often favour gentle extraction and careful ageing—sometimes in used oak—to showcase the purity of Syrah and its peppery, floral aromatics. Expect a wine with aromas of blackcurrant, violets and black pepper, complemented by a silky texture and a subtle smoky undertone.

The region itself, Saint-Joseph, stretches along the right bank of the Rhône north of Cornas and south of Côte-Rôtie. The area benefits from a semi-continental climate with influence from both the river and the sheltering Massif Central, providing warm days and cool nights. This diurnal variation helps the Syrah grape maintain aromatic intensity and freshness. The soils are predominantly granitic, adding a mineral precision and lift to the wines. Historically, Saint-Joseph was overshadowed by its illustrious neighbours, but it has become renowned for wines that offer both expressiveness and a certain understated elegance.

Pairing wise, this Saint-Joseph rouge will sing alongside roasted lamb with rosemary, duck breast with blackcurrant sauce, or grilled ribeye, allowing the wine’s peppery, berry-bright character to resonate with the richness of the meat. Local dishes such as "caillettes" (herb-flecked pork dumplings) or Lyonnaise sausages also make for quintessential regional matches, while for more adventurous pairings, try with chargrilled aubergine or hearty lentil stews.

For optimum enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Allow the bottle to breathe for an hour before serving, especially in its youth, to let the Syrah’s aromatic complexity unfurl. This vintage can be enjoyed now for its lively fruit, but will reward a few years' cellaring, gaining depth and harmony with time.