E. Guigal : Saint-Joseph 2021

Tasting characteristics and advice for the 2021 Saint-Joseph red from E. Guigal

Tasting

Appearance
Beautiful color with violet hues

Nose
The bouquet combines pronounced red-fruit aromas with delicate woody notes.

Palate
Both straightforward and velvety on the palate, it reveals generous richness supported by silky tannins and lovely balance.

Serving and cellaring

Serve between 16 and 18°C (61–64°F). This wine can improve in the cellar until around 2030.

Food and wine pairing

This red wine pairs perfectly with red meats, charcuterie, and aged cheeses.

A red wine from the Rhône Valley marked by freshness and structure

The estate

Created in 1946 by Etienne Guigal in the commune of Ampuis, the Domaine E. Guigal was taken over by his son Marcel in 1961. Today, the third generation preserves the tradition and principles of this prestigious Rhône family estate. Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Hermitage, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Saint-Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage: the E. Guigal estate cultivates a diverse array of vineyards across multiple appellations, constituting a collection of wines of impeccable excellence. Over the years, Maison E. Guigal has experienced remarkable growth, notably acquiring the prestigious Château d'Ampuis in 1995, as well as several winegrowing properties (Jean-Louis Grippat, Domaine de Vallouit, Domaine de Bonserine, and Château de Nalys in Châteauneuf-du-Pape).

The vineyard

A benchmark among Saint-Joseph wines, this cuvée comes from vineyards rooted in siliceous-limestone terroirs composed of mica schist, whose decomposition has led to limestone, granitic, and sandy-pebbly soils. Ranging from 20 to 50 years old, the vines are mainly planted in the areas of Tournon, Mauves, and Sarras.

Winemaking and aging

Alcoholic fermentation in stainless-steel tanks at high temperature. The 28-month maturation takes place in second-use barrels.

Grape variety

100% Syrah.