2021 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Saint-Joseph Rouge [D93][JD92][V91]

Producer: Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Region: Saint-Joseph, Rhône, France Varietal: Syrah Year: 2021 
Decanter, 93 Points 
“A tasting of the various constituent lieux-dits revealed that the Bachesson parcel had a peppery side and its characteristic rose scent, and an unmistakably granitic texture. The Chalaix lieu-dit was precise, fine, with no huge concentration but good balance. Lieu-dit Dardouille was looking promising, with good weight and length. The finished blend of the domaine’s St-Joseph is likely to be neat, precise and fresh, with a distinct mineral side, one to drink relatively young. There will be no separate bottling of Clos Florentin this year due to frost.” 
Jeb Dunnuck, 92 Points
“The 2021s here are certainly strong wines in the vintage. The 2021 Saint Joseph is a healthy dense ruby/purple hue and offers textbook Saint Joseph aromas and flavors of black fruit (there’s a hint of red fruit as well), graphite, ground pepper, and some meaty, bloody nuances. Medium-bodied, it has beautiful tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and outstanding length. It’s one of the rare 2021s that really needs a few years of bottle age. Due to the devastating frost, no Clos Florentin will be produced in 2021.” 
Vinous, 91 Points 
“Using roughly 10% whole-clusters during fermentation, the 2021 Saint-Joseph offers a red-fruited profile paired with earthy gradations and leafy undertones. Medium-bodied and well balanced by bright acidity, the seamlessly sculpted 2021 comes with absolutely no hard edges and concludes with a clean finish. Chave bottled the 2021 slightly earlier than usual in order to help maintain its freshness.” 
Alcohol: 13.5% 
*Price and availability in store may vary. Vintage date may differ from pictured.