M. Chapoutier : Les Granilites 2020

Delicious, rich and well-balanced, with equal parts ripe, flattering fruit and mineral intensity. Shows melon and apricot flavors that are plush and open, with details of ground ginger, heather and dried green herbs. Vibrant through the well-meshed finish, with a kiss of shortbread. Drink now through 2026. 68 cases imported.

Ripe lemons, Anjou pear, iris, almond and vanilla paste make for a very complex nose. The palate of this wine offers a vibrant freshness of lemon zest, white peach and firm minerality, supported by lingering soft butterscotch tones that trail into the finish. Despite its ripeness and round body, the wine remains light and balanced adding to its appeal.

The 2020 Saint Joseph Les Granilites Blanc has lots of classic Marsanne quince and honeyed stone fruit notes as well as medium-bodied richness and depth on the palate. A mix of terroirs, it’s a classic expression of the variety that should drink nicely for at least 4-5 years, and I certainly wouldn’t bet against it evolving longer.

You can sense lovely ripe fruit and élevage carried out mainly in tank, which suits it well: the wine remains balanced overall, with a charming touch on the palate. The finish shows a certain freshness and tension. Drinkable now, with no urgency.