M. Chapoutier St Joseph Les Granits 2016

Juicy and still very compact, with a briary edge to the intense mix of black cherry, blackberry and black currant fruit. Dark tea, singed mesquite and olive notes fill in before a bolt of iron minerality takes charge on the finish. Very long. Best from 2022 through 2038.

The 2016 Saint Joseph Les Granits comes from the Saint Joseph lieu-dit just south of Tournon and was destemmed and brought up in a mix of 25% new demi-muids and Burgundy barrels. Just screaming granite on the nose with its black raspberry, crushed rocks, white pepper, gunpowder, and exotic spices, this beauty hits the palate with full body, ripe, present tannins, beautiful acidity, and an undeniable minerality. Despite all its upfront fruit and texture, it has rock solid structure and will age for two decades.

Grown on the east-facing portion of Tournon's lieu-dit Saint-Joseph, the 2016 Saint-Joseph Les Granits is an expressive and wild blend of espresso, black olive, crushed stone and grilled meat. Medium to full-bodied, it's saline and savory, with a rich, silky-textured finish that lingers on the palate. Really impressive stuff.