M. Chapoutier Saint-Joseph "Le Clos" Rouge 2018
(Northern Rhone, France) - [JD 97] [WA 95-97] [VM 94]

About the Winery:
The name Chapoutier occupies a storied place in the history of the Rhône Valley, beginning 1808, when the family first settled in the Rhône Valley. Throughout the 19^th century and well into the next, M. CHAPOUTIER and its eponymous winery grew steadily, producing wine from esteemed vineyard sites such as Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, 1990 was a watershed moment for the winery, with the arrival of Michel Chapoutier. Under his leadership, the maverick winemaker established bold initiatives. For example, the introduction of Single Vineyard Selection that express the unique terroir of a site, or wine labels embossed in braille for the visually impaired. In each instance, Michel’s decisions were, and continue to be, driven by a deep respect for the soil, climate, and his fellow human beings.

About this Wine:
The grapes bunches are cut then transported to the winery in small crates. Alcoholic fermentation is carried out in a small, 30 HL, concrete vat with long maceration for around 5 weeks. Entirely in barrels for around 20 months period (25% new barrels).

Dark, garnet black with purple highlights throughout. The nose is lovely with notes of dark cherry and blackberry and beautiful minerality with graphite notes. The palate is soft, rich and elegant on entry with very fine, silky tannins. A long-lingering finish and aromatic notes are reminiscent of the granite terroir.

Ratings & Reviews

97 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"I've loved every vintage of this cuvée and the 2018 Saint Joseph Le Clos is undoubtedly with the best of them. Incredibly complex notes of black raspberries, flowers, lavender, bouquet garni, and a terrific sense of elegance all emerge from the glass, and this full-bodied beauty has a silky, elegant texture, great tannins, and one seriously lengthy finish. It shows more spice and meaty nuances with time in the glass and this is more Hermitage than your classic Saint Joseph. Enjoy bottles any time over the coming 20 years. (Drink between 2020-2040)" (Nov 2020)