2013 St Joseph Domaine de la Croix des Vignes

Another outstanding wine from this estate that shines for its purity and elegance is the 2013 St Joseph Domaine de Croix de Vignes, which comes from 1.5-hectare of vines located just outside Tournon and Mauves. Aged in 20% new French oak, it has classic notes of dark fruits, olive, licorice, smoked earth and distinct minerality. Medium-bodied, elegant and seamless with fine tannin, it's already approachable in a youthful sort of way, but will evolve nicely for 10-12 years.

Inky ruby. Expansive aromas of black and blue fruits, smoky minerals, spicecake and floral oils. Alluringly sweet and seamless on the palate, offering an array of dark berry fruit and floral pastille flavors lifted by juicy acidity. Finishes with smooth, harmonious tannins that fold quickly into the wine's plush, spice-accented fruit.

The tiny production 2013 Saint Joseph Croix de Vignes Blanc, which is released only in magnum, is a blend of two-thirds Marsanne and one-third Roussanne, all of which comes from the northern part of the appellation, around the town of Limony. It’s about as racy and focused as they come, with lots of green citrus, crushed rock, mint and hints of almond all showing on the palate. These traits carry over to the palate where the wine has medium-bodied richness, juicy acidity and a clean finish. It’s not for those craving massive textures or richness, yet excels on its purity and length. Drink it over the coming decade or more.