Gabriel Meffre 'Saint Etienne' Saint-Joseph Syrah 2016 Grape Varietal: 100% Syrah Growing Region: Saint-Joseph, Rhône Valley - France Head Winemaker: Veronique Torcolacci Last year I spent a few days with the team at Gabriel Meffre in Gigondas - France. Where this wine estate has a closely-linked history with the region - since it was founded in 1936. During my visit I had an extremely comprehensive tasting of their range, which is substantial in number and styles. It was a pleasure to spend time tasting them with Véronique Torcolacci - who not only crafted these wines but has an incredible knowledge of the region, the soils and varietals which cling to the sides of this rugged and mountainous area. The Syrah grapes for this wine are grown in a stunning part of the northern Rhône Valley. The Saint Joseph wine appellation is over 50km’s long, with steep, terraced vineyards stretching along the right bank of the Rhône River, between Condrieu in the north and St Peray in the south. Saint Joseph is produced almost entirely from Syrah, grown in light soils of schist and gneiss on granitic bedrock with steep slopes facing east, with some sites having a small number of vines planted on and over the mountain ridge, with some able to face west. This Syrah is part of the Gabriel Meffre ‘Signature’ series of wines. Showcasing and celebrating the diversity of each ‘terroir’ and grape variety. And through careful vinification, looking to expressing the purity of fruit and craft approachable early drinking style wines. The name ‘Saint Etienne’ - which means ‘crowned saint’ - was chosen for this wine in reference to the village of Saint Etienne de Valoux, where the Saint Joseph vineyards are situated. On arrival into the winery, the fruit was carefully sorted, then destemmed and then lightly crushed. A traditional fermentation process lasted for about 3 weeks followed by racking and then malolactic fermentation. The wine was then matured in concrete vats for 10 months prior to tasting blending and then bottling. As you pour this wine into your glass, you will be greeted by a purple red colour and shiny hue. On the nose your senses will be engaged by notes of plums, cherries, subtle herbs and a note of white pepper. On the palate the wine is smooth and approachable, medium in weight, showcasing those red fruits, velvet tannins and the primary flavour of cherries, dried herbs and refreshing fruit acidity. The finish is smooth, with a last note of red fruits and pepper. Treat yourself - this wine is definitely worth sharing. This 2016 Gabriel Meffre 'Saint Etienne' Saint-Joseph Syrah has 13% Alc./vol. Mild decanting of 25-30 minutes and serve in an appropriate glass at 16-17°C. Cellaring Potential: Drinking well this season; plus will age nicely for another 2-3 years. Food Pairing Suggestions: Perfect wine pairing with mild meats, roast pork, bbq’d lamb cutlets, mild pasta & pizza, tapas’, subtle earthy vegetarian cuisine and hard cheeses - enjoy. An approachable, relaxed Saint-Joseph style Syrah, with a versatile appeal. .