The parcels of vines are located in the districts of Charnas, Tournon and Mauves, where the principal soil and climate components that make for great Saint-Joseph wines can be found.
Here there is granite terrain formed by geologic alteration, and content carried in by the wind ensuring that the soils are good for water filtration and restriction. The altitude and wind exposure (including the Mistral) ensure natural regulation of pests while providing freshness throughout the summer. These kinetics of slow maturation, give “Granilites” a potential for freshness, minerality and a particularly interesting tautness.
Grape variety
Syrah
Ageing potential
5 to 10 years
Soil
Granite terrain created by the wind and geological alteration resulting in restrictive soils with good drainage. Here we find the principal soil and climatic elements of great Saint-Joseph wines. These slow kinetics of maturation give the “Granilites” wine great freshness, minerality, and acidity potential.
Parcels
The parcels of vines are located in the communes of Charnas, Tournon and Mauves, the birthplace of the appellation. The altitude and exposure to wind (including the Mistral) ensure that there is a natural self-regulation of pests, while providing cool air throughout the summer. The parcels are primarily southeast facing.
Harvest
By hand in dry, sunny weather
Vinification
Fermentation is brought on by indigenous yeasts and takes place in temperature-controlled concrete tanks. A maceration lasting 4 weeks is carried out, followed by malolactic fermentation in barrels.
Ageing
25% of the wine is aged in oak barrels (100% French), which gives the wine consistency and power, along with aromatic complexity. The remaining 75% is aged in concrete tanks, which preserves the freshness and minerality of the Syrah.
Tasting
“Les Granilites” is a mineral wine. Its terroir provides it with lovely taunt acidity and a well honed tannic structure.
Colour: garnet red with purple highlights
Nose: nice intensity of wild dark berry notes (blackcurrant, blackberries), mineral notes (graphite), underscored by lovely, smooth oakiness.
Palate: soft and well-balanced on entry. Fine, tight tannins, beautiful mineral tautness derived from the granite. Long-lasting finish with lovely dark berry notes.
Anecdote: The appellation’s name refers to the first name of Joseph, the husband of the Virgin Mary, a name given to it by the Jesuits (a religious community).
