Viniou Reviews
The 2023 Saint-Joseph Rouge from Cave Saint Désirat is a fine example of Northern Rhône Syrah. Crafted exclusively from this varietal, the wine typically shows a deep ruby colour and offers aromas of ripe blackberry, violet, and subtle peppery notes, alongside hints of liquorice and tapenade that are characteristic of Syrah grown on the region’s granite slopes. The 2023 vintage, marked by a relatively warm growing season, has likely yielded a wine with generous fruit concentration, supple tannins, and a fresh, elegant structure. Traditional vinification methods, including fermentation in temperature-controlled vessels and aging in a combination of stainless steel and seasoned oak, are favoured here to preserve the expressive fruit and spice.
Saint-Joseph is one of the emblematic appellations of the northern part of the Rhône Valley. Vineyards are perched on steep, terraced slopes composed mainly of granite soils, which contribute to the finesse and aromatic complexity of the wines. The region benefits from a continental climate with warm, dry summers and significant diurnal temperature variation, which helps grapes retain their freshness and build depth of flavour. Historically, Saint-Joseph has often been overshadowed by its more famous neighbours such as Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie, but in recent years, its reputation has soared as producers like Cave Saint Désirat have invested in quality and vineyard management.
This Saint-Joseph pairs brilliantly with roast lamb, venison, or duck breast served with blackcurrant sauce, as the wine’s acidity and peppery undertones beautifully complement rich meats. For a regional touch, pair it with "daube de bœuf à la provençale" or a platter of saucisson sec and aged Tomme cheese to enhance the savoury and earthy notes of the wine.
Serve this wine slightly cool to highlight its freshness, ideally between 15 and 17°C. Decanting for around thirty minutes before serving can help reveal the full aromatic palette, especially in its youthful stage. This 2023 Saint-Joseph can be enjoyed now for its fruit-driven appeal, but also has the potential to evolve gracefully over the next five to seven years.
