Pierre Gaillard Cote-Rotie AOC

Gaillard's Saint-Joseph rouge is drawn from several parcels located in the high country of Malleval and Chavanay, in the far north of this sprawling appellation--closer to Vienne and Condrieu than to Tournon-sur-Rhône. The steep, cool soils here have plenty of granite, which contributes to the mineral cut of this perfumed and vibrant Syrah. In 2019, each parcel was vinified separately, aging was mostly in used Allier and Nevers barrels for 18 months and the wine was bottled unfiltered.

 

With good structure and silky tannins, this is as open and friendly as the grower himself--primed for instant drinking appeal. The high elevation of the vineyards sings through on the palate, lifting the wine's textured layers of black cherry, floral notes and sweet brown spices. The twist of freshness on the vibrant and intense finish is particularly well captured. On current showing this is quite possibly our favourite vintage shipped for some time.