At a glance

Producer

J.L. Chave Sélection

Region

Saint-Joseph AOP, Rhône, France

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Dark red fruits (blackberry, black cherry), cured meat, pepper, violet floral notes, and earthy undertones

Evolution: Will develop more complex tertiary aromas of leather, smoked herbs, and truffle over the next 10 years

At peak: Rich, integrated flavors with silky tannins and balanced acidity

Structure

Acidity

High, providing freshness and aging potential

Tannins

Firm and well-structured, typical of Northern Rhône Syrah

Alcohol

Around 13.5%-14%

Aging potential

20+ years expected with proper storage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2050

Optimal window

2023 to 2053

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

Still quite youthful with strong tannins and vibrant acidity

The 2018 vintage in Saint-Joseph was excellent, producing wines with ripe fruit and balanced structure, ideal for medium- to long-term aging. This wine's firm tannins and acidity will allow it to evolve gracefully between 2028-2035, reaching full maturity with elegant complexity.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, duck breast with a berry sauce, game meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and reveal complex aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

J.L. Chave Sélection emphasizes sustainable viticulture practices including limited chemical use, canopy management to reduce disease, and soil conservation techniques. Energy use is optimized in production facilities with partial use of renewable energy.

The producer implements responsible sustainable farming practices aligned with Rhône appellation standards. While not fully organic or biodynamic, the focus on ecosystem preservation and energy efficiency supports a stronger environmental profile compared to average commercial producers. The carbon emissions from transport are typical for Rhône wines exported globally.