Saint-Joseph AOC

The wines of Saint-Joseph are generally rustic. Syrah grown in this part of the Northern Rhône Valley give rich and ripe black fruit characterised by spicy notes of black pepper and floral perfumes. Vineyards are planted along steep vineyard terraces cut into the rock along the right bank of the Rhône River. 

In 1956 Saint-Joseph was given AOC status. Back then, the appellation consisted of six villages. The boundaries were extended in 1969 and today the territory covers 26 villages.

The majority of wine produced in Saint-Josph is full bodied red wine. In general, they lack the ripeness of nearby Hermitage, and lack the concentration and richness of Cote Rotie. However, they remain fairly hig, robust red wines. A small amount of white wine is also produced here using the traditional white varieties of the area, Marsanne and Rousanne. Few producers have built their reputation off the back of these wines. 

Saint-Joesph is primarily planted with Syrah. There is also some Marsanne and Roussane planted.

Domaine Bernard Gripa is a name that stands out for truly excellent Saint Joseph Blanc.