Amphores 2022 Saint-Joseph "Les Sept Lieux"

The Amphores "7 Lieux" is from vines planted in the 90's, always organic, and from parcels of old vines, converted to organic, in Chavanay, below Condrieu. Philippe and Veronique Grenier have always farmed organically and now they are certified Biodynamic as well, bringing the quality even higher at this wonderful small estate. 50 - 60% de-stemmed, aged 50% in vat, 50% in 2 to 10 year-old demi-muid and foudre. The 2022 "7 Lieus" is a gorgeous Saint-Joseph, showing a deep red/purple color and fresh, floral aromas with violet, black raspberry, black plum, a bit of smoke and black pepper, backed with earth and mineral notes. The palate shows a classic Northern Rhone backbone of iron and earth flavors nicely balanced with lush red currant, black raspberry and black olive with lovely freshness, surprising in this hot vintage. The finish shows firm acidity, mineral flavors and sappy, lingering olive and berry fruit with a hint of that special Syrah animal funk. (Albert Dervieux-Thaize once told me that a good Cote-Rotie should smell like the gut of a warm hare) This will improve with time in the cellar, but is delicious now as well for its authentic and old-fashioned Syrah character, with lovely fruit and freshness. 13% alcohol. -David Lillie