2019 Saint-Joseph Rouge, Jean-Louis Chave

"Tasted in components. #1, from 18-year-old vines in Chaillets: smoke-accented cherry and blackberry qualities, plus a suggestion of licorice. Silky and open-knit, offering juicy dark berry flavors that deepen on the back half. Round tannins come in late. #2, from Dardouille: deeper and more brooding than the Chaillets, showing an array of black and blue fruit and floral qualities and a touch of smoky bacon. Very long and penetrating, with the floral note repeating strongly. #3, from Baschesson: Very suave and highly perfumed, showing intense dark berry, floral and spice character and a vibrant mineral underpinning. The floral note repeats emphatically on the back end and fine-grained tannins lend gentle grip. The ultimate rendition of this wine should be rich yet energetic, with pronounced floral character; it's shaping up to be quite a formidable wine and it should be (compared to many an Hermitage) a solid value if you can find it." ~ (95) Josh Raynolds, Vinous 5-1-2020

"Both Saint Josephs from Chave are brilliant, and the estate 2019 Saint Joseph offers classic blackberry fruits as well as peppery, violet, and smoky bacon fat. It has a ripe, concentrated style yet brings plenty of tannins and has a firm, age-worthy feel." ~ (94) Jeb Dunnuck, JebDunnuck.com 2-16-2022

"Bottled in late July 2021, Chave's 2019 Saint Joseph boasts copious floral scents of violets and lavender set against a backdrop of purple raspberries. In the mouth, it's medium to full-bodied, with a wonderfully rich yet silky feel and plenty of airy, refreshing length on the finish. It should drink well on release and for at least a decade after that." ~ (94) Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 1-20-2022