Herve Souhaut, Cessieux, Saint Joseph 2023 1.5L

Grapes: Syrah

Vineyard: Le Clos des Cessieux, a helical-shaped lieu-dit situated in St Jean du Muzols, the cradle of the Saint Joseph appellation. 32 year-old vines on granitic soil.

Vinification: Grapes are hand-harvested and vinified traditionally, without destemming. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats for nearly 3 weeks, with punch-downs and daily foot treading. Aged on the lees in second-hand Burgundy barrels for 8 months. Bottled unfined, unfiltered, with a small amount of SO2 added at bottling depending on the vintage. 

Personality: Les Cessieux is a study of Hervé’s use of finesse in what would traditionally have made a powerful and brooding wine. The classic elements of Northern Rhone Syrah, dark red fruits and savory elements of bacon fat are present, but they are subtle in comparison with the floral aromas jumping out of the glass. Les Cessieux is Hervé’s most exuberant — one might say hedonistic — wine.