Saint Joseph Les Grands Ducs 2020
Domaine Francois Merlin

£40

In stock

Case Price

£432.00 for 12 Save 10% (£36.00 each)

Producer: Domaine Francois Merlin
Grape Varieties: Syrah/Shiraz
Origin: France > Rhône

François Merlin, a standout in the Northern Rhône, crafts a compelling St-Joseph with blueberry notes and earthy undertones. Earning a notable 94 points from Decanter, this wine expertly balances tradition with modernity, promising further potential with age.

SHOP ALL FROM DOMAINE FRANÇOIS MERLIN

HIGHLIGHTS:

François Merlin, a passionate first-generation winemaker in the Northern Rhône, stands out as one of the most exciting names in the region today
A standout single-parcel bottling from St-Joseph
Recognized with a high score of 94 pts by Matt Walls from Decanter

tasting profile

Compelling, complex aromas of blueberries intertwined with crushed rocks
Earthy, smoky and black olive nuances with underlying notes of dark chocolate are complemented by soft, succulent tannins

in the vineyard

Sourced from a single-parcel in St-Joseph, benefiting from schist and granite soils
The vineyard hosts 13-year-old vines that face south to southeast in St-Pierre-de-Boeuf, ensuring optimal sun exposure

in the winery

Merlin's approach centres on amplifying the wine's purity and flair, striking a balance between fruit and earthiness
Both concrete and oak vats are used for fermentation
40% of the grapes are fermented whole bunch
Ageing the wine involves a combination of demi-muids and amphorae over 18 months

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Perfect food pairings include tapenade-rubbed pork roast, juicy burgers, and smoked ribs, where the wine's earthiness and fruit intensity shine
While it's a treat to drink now, this St-Joseph has the potential to develop further complexities in the bottle
Store in a cool, dark place, ideally in a wine cellar or wine fridge, and serve at a slightly chilled room temperature for optimal enjoyment

in the press

94 PTS - DECANTER "A compelling nose that's complex and deep, while the palate is fairly rich in both fruit and body, but very fresh, with mouthcoating fruit and tannin, and ample but not excessive alcohol. There's a touch of dark chocolate, with soft and succulent tannins. A very long, luxurious and impressive style of St-Joseph from 13-year-old vines planted on granite and schist facing south- to southeast in St-Pierre-de-Boeuf. Partly vinified in concrete, partly in tronconic oak vats, 40% whole bunch. Aged in demi-muids (25% new) and 10% in amphorae for 18 months." - Matt Walls - Decanter