St Joseph, Les Royes, Domaine Courbis

Producer Note

Domaine Courbis dates from the 16th century and has been handed down from father to son since the start of the 20th century. It is now under the dynamic partnership of two brothers: Laurent, who is responsible for winemaking, and Dominique who looks after the vineyard. The vineyard currently extends to 35 hectares (including eight hectares in Cornas, five hectares in Saint Joseph Blanc and 19 hectares in Saint Joseph Rouge) in the communes of Châteaubourg and Cornas. The vines are planted on steep hillsides and the cellar is modern and equipped with temperature controlled stainless steel tanks and oak casks. The wines of Domaine Courbis are of extremely high quality and are consistently met with worldwide acclaim.

Vintage

The spring of 2018 was varied. March was cold and rainy, followed by a warm April and a sunny May. The summer that followed delivered exceptionally warm, sunny days throughout and the temperatures were above average for the duration, which allowed the grapes to reach excellent maturity, resulting in expressive wines with wonderful fruit concentration. 

Vineyard

Located in a picturesque valley and surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, the Royes vineyard forms an amphitheatre and covers six hectares. This is a spectacular Saint Joseph site, on south-facing steep slopes, situated on the edge of Cornas. The soil is made up of clay and limestone, which imparts elegance to the resulting wine.

Winemaking

The grapes were hand harvested, de-stemmed and lightly pressed. Vinification took place in sealed temperature controlled stainless steel tanks at 30 to 32°C. Maceration lasted 12 to 15 days, during which time the desired level of colour, flavours and fine tannins were extracted. The wine was aged in oak, of which 20% was new, for a period of 14 months.

Tasting Note

Ripe cassis aromas combine with seductive smoky, toasty undertones. Smooth, silky and concentrated with fine tannins and harmonious balance through to a long, persistent finish.

Serving Suggestion

At room temperature to accompany roast meats and poultry.

Grape

Syrah 100%