SAINT JOSEPH
"LES CAPELETS"
- Pierre Amadieu -

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Soils of schistes and gneiss are the best to grow the famous Syrah grape. This very poor soil where the rain make difficult the work on the steep slopes are typical of the Saint Joseph Appellation region. Bunches selected to produce this cuvée are the fruit of our partnership, with a limited yield for a full expression of this magic grape.
The wine making process starts after tasting of the berries. The balance between colour, structure and aromas is brought by a long cuvaison under controlled temperature in stainless steel tanks to reveal the mouth filling fruity notes typical of the Syrah grape.
Partly aged in new oak (about 20%) this aging bring more complexity along with roundness.
Once the nose fragrances of black currant, raspberry harmonized with leather and liquorice scents through the years. On the palate, subtile flavours of small red fruits and violet, moving to powerful animal and mineral notes with a touch of cocoa.
Silky tannins and the length in mouth will perfectly match with a filet of beef while young, or later with a stuffed pheasant, chocolate truffles. Drink at room temperature (17°).
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History |
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These delicate wines were first called " Vin des Mauves " and first served to French Kings during the 12th century. The slopes were build by the vintners and contributed to the wine's reputation. Between 1956 and 1969 all the vineyards of this region were grouped together, nowadays the appellation is composed of 26 " communes ".
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The Controlled Appellation |
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The vineyard is 650 Ha large, the only red grape variety allowed is Syrah. For white wines the varieties are Marsanne and Roussane. For both wines the same minimum percentage of alcohol is required (10%) to produce C.A. wines. White Saint Joseph represents 20% of the whole production.
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The soil |
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Facing the slopes of Hermitage, the vineyard (40 km long!) is the largest along the right bank of the Northern Rhône. The slopes of St Joseph are not easy to cultivate, the soil is poor (schist and gneiss) and vintner, after big storms, have to move washed-away earth back up.
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