Ferme Saint-Martin 2022 Cuvée Saint-Martin Beaumes-de-Venise

Thomas and Sophie Jullien at la Ferme Saint-Martin are making some of the finest wines in the Southern Rhône on their organic estate in Suzette, near Beaumes-de-Venise. One of their best wines, the Cuvée Saint-Martin is made with 85% Grenache from 60 to 105 year-old vines grown on clay over limestone (Triassic) soils. Vinification is with wild yeasts, with no added SO2 until a tiny amount before bottling. The 2022 has a compelling nose of savory spice, black cherry and some plum fruit, with hints of earth and forest floor all intermingling seamlessly. On the palate it is broad but contained nicely with good acidity and very fine tannins. The finish is long and lingering, with a nice balance of fruit, spice and umami. This is an outstanding southern Rhône red and a great value - serve with grilled foods, Moroccan tagines and Provençal stews.