Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Selection St Joseph Blanc Circa 2021

In an amazing example of vinous lineage, the Chave family has been growing grapes on the hill of Hermitage since 1481. Today the estate is run by Gerard Chave and his son Jean-Louis and they produce some of the regions finest wines including a red & white Hermitage, a St-Joseph and a Côtes du Rhône Mon Coeur. Superb vineyard holdings including prime slices of Bessards, L'Hermite, Peleat and Meal in Hermitage, and incredibly high standards in both the vineyard and cellar, the wines are made in a very hands-off fashion and show great detail, nuance and regional typicity.

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Roussanne is a white grape variety originating from the Rhône Valley in France, where it is highly esteemed for producing wines with a distinctive and elegant character. Roussanne wines are known for their aromatic complexity and refined structure, often displaying a bouquet of fresh pear, honeysuckle, herbal tea, and sometimes a subtle nuttiness. These wines tend to have a crisp acidity and a medium to full body, making them both refreshing and satisfying on the palate. The flavors can include stone fruits like apricot and peach, complemented by notes of citrus, white flowers, and occasionally a hint of spice or mineral undertone. Roussanne is typically blended with Marsanne to create balanced and harmonious wines, but it also shines as a single varietal wine, particularly in regions like Hermitage and Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Rhône Valley.

In winemaking, Roussanne requires careful handling due to its susceptibility to oxidation and its relatively low yields. Producers often ferment and age the wine in stainless steel or neutral oak barrels to preserve its delicate aromas and maintain freshness. Some winemakers may use a portion of new oak to impart additional complexity and texture, though this is done judiciously to avoid overwhelming the wine's intrinsic qualities. Outside of France, Roussanne has found a home in various New World regions, including California and Australia, where it continues to produce excellent wines with a unique expression of the grape. These wines can age well, developing richer, more nuanced flavors over time, making Roussanne a prized variety among wine enthusiasts and collectors for its elegance, depth, and aging potential.

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