2017 St Joseph
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Tasting notes
Jean-Claude Marsanne is based in Mauves in the southern part of the St-Joseph appellation. His vineyards are on slopes that are, in effect, a continuation of the hill of Hermitage, on the opposite bank of the Rhône. He is a man of few words who puts all his efforts into a single, brilliant, ageworthy St-Joseph. Most of the wine matures in old oak demi-muids, the remainder in tank . Healthy crimson. Correct, fairly supple northern Rhône fruit on the nose. Really rather fine now – though I saw it did not appeal to Richard when young ( see tasting note ). Fine-boned with a good core of sinewy fruit. It doesn’t taste 14%. Another wine to drink with food. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Dark ruby. Mineral-accented dark berry, olive and floral pastille aromas show sharp clarity and pick up an exotic spice nuance with air. Juicy and penetrating in the mouth, offering intense bitter cherry, boysenberry and spicecake flavors that are given spine by a core of juicy acidity. Finishes spicy and quite long, displaying resonating spiciness and supple tannins.
Phenolic, oxidative nose. Hot, baked fruit. Tired finish. Bruised. (RH)
About the producer
The little-known Domaine Jean-Claude Marsanne, based in the heart of Saint-Joseph in Mauves, makes some of the Northern Rhône’s best-value wines.