Saint-Joseph
Saint-Joseph (French pronunciation: [sɛ̃.ʒo.zɛf]) is a recognised appellation of the Northern Rhône in France, noted primarily for its red wines made from Syrah. A smaller proportion of white wine is produced from Marsanne and Roussanne, giving the area a diverse though stylistically coherent identity within the Rhône Valley[1].
Geography and terroir
The appellation extends along the western bank of the Rhône River, stretching over 50 kilometres from Chavanay in the north to Guilherand-Granges in the south[2]. Vineyards are often planted on steep, east-facing slopes where granite dominates the soils, sometimes mixed with schist and gneiss. This combination of rocky substrata and good drainage is seen as a defining element of the local terroir. The continental climate brings warm summers and cold winters, moderated by the Mistral wind, which reduces disease pressure but can also cause stress to vines.
Grape varieties and wine styles
The appellation is most closely associated with Syrah, which must constitute the majority of any red wine produced. Regulations permit the addition of up to 10% Marsanne or Roussanne, though this practice is uncommon[3]. Red wines are typically characterised by aromas of black fruit, pepper, and herbal notes, often more supple and approachable in youth than those of neighbouring Hermitage.
White wines, though less common, are made exclusively from Marsanne and Roussanne. They tend to display flavours of stone fruit, honey and floral elements, with moderate acidity and potential for ageing[4].
History and classification
Viticulture in the Saint-Joseph zone dates back to Roman times and was well established by the Middle Ages. The wines were historically known as "Vin de Mauves", referenced by Victor Hugo in Les Misérables[5]. The Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) was granted in 1956, initially covering a small core of communes near Tournon and Mauves. In the 1970s the area was expanded considerably to include more villages along the Rhône, which brought both increased production and debate over the consistency of style and quality[6].
Modern production and reputation
Today Saint-Joseph covers around 1,300 hectares, making it one of the larger Northern Rhône appellations by area[7]. Production is dominated by red wines, which account for the vast majority of output. The style is often described as lighter and earlier-drinking than that of hermitage or Côte-Rôtie, though top sites and producers achieve wines of considerable depth and longevity. The region is home to both small family domaines and larger négociant houses, and its wines are increasingly visible on international markets[8].
See also
References
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, p. 635. ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, p. 172. ISBN 978-1784724030.
- ↑ Livingstone-Learmonth, The Wines of the Northern Rhône, Infinite Ideas, 2019, pp. 242–244. ISBN 978-1913022202.
- ↑ Inter Rhône, "Saint-Joseph AOC", https://www.vins-rhone.com
- ↑ Livingstone-Learmonth, The Wines of the Northern Rhône, Infinite Ideas, 2019, p. 240. ISBN 978-1913022202.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, p. 635. ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, p. 172. ISBN 978-1784724030.
- ↑ Inter Rhône, "Saint-Joseph AOC", https://www.vins-rhone.com