If yesterday we've been focusing on a big, full and fruity warm climate Australian Shiraz, today we want to highlight an example of subtler and leaner Syrah coming from a cool climate such as the one of the Northern Cote du Rhone.
Situated in south-eastern France the Northern Cote du Rhone has a moderate to cool continental climate and is responsible for some of the best (if not the best!) world-wide produced Syrah. Here Syrah is at the very northern limit of where it can ripen successfully. This cooler climate results in wines that are leaner yet more complex than the Australian cousins.
They are typically characterized by sour black fruit and black olives flavours complemented by a peppery and earthy profile which evolves into complex meaty and leather aromas as they age. These wines are capable of very long term (in some cases - Hermitage, Cote-Rotie - even more than a Bordeaux) bottle aging.
With Cote-Rotie and Hermitage commanding top-prices, Saint Joseph represent an example of great value Northern Rhone Syrah made in a more fruity and consumer-friendly style.
Our Colombo & Fils Saint Joseph 2013 at £15.85 is made using traditional vinification techniques and oak barrels aging for a minimum period of 12 months. The result is a wine with an elegant and lively structure complemented by aromas and flavours of cassis, black olives tapenade lifted by peppery and clove notes.
It goes perfectly with HERB-CRUSTED RACK OF LAMB WITH BEAN PURÉE
You can find the full recipe online at http://www.grandcruco.com/…/colombo-38-fils-saint-joseph-20…
Pop in for a visit in our beautiful shop ! You can try this and 40 other wines for FREE ! Our prices start from as little as £8.60.
You always get a 15% discount and free delivery (within 5 miles) when you purchase a 12 bottles case.
Cheers !
G.A. from the Grand Cru team
