A full-bore, concentrated and age-worthy St Joseph that checks in near the top of the appellation, the 2010 St Joseph Lieu Dit St Joseph offers classic bacon fat, spice, barbecue smoke and assorted dark fruits, with the stunning minerality common in the vintage. Full-bodied and structured, with tons of extract, bight acidity and lots of tannin, it needs 3-4 years of cellaring but will have 2+ decades of longevity.

One of the most famous wine producing names in France, Guigal is based in the northern Rhône valley. Originally founded by Etienne Guigal, the business has since been expanded by Marcel and his son, Philippe. Saint-Joseph has traditionally had a reputation for more rustic styles of wine but a new generation of producers are creating fine, elegant examples from the steeply sloping gneiss and granite influenced soils high above the river Rhône. This particular lieu dit is a two hectare site of old Syrah vines between 20 and 75 years old. Following harvest, temperature controlled fermentation took place, after which a further fermentation and a three week maceration period ensued. Prior to bottling, the wine was aged in oak barrels, 50% of which were new. Wine Buyer’s Note: The deep colour of this wine is matched by the intense dark fruit and black pepper nose. The powerful palate has firm tannins, great concentration and well integrated oak. Proper liquorice nose with masses of ripe fruit and yet the structure of the northern Rhône. Proper stuff. Great to have this on a shelf even if it seems a tad expensive? (JR)