Saint-Joseph Circa
2023
The Chave family is the epitome of 'People, Place and Time'. They have been vignerons in the Rhône valley since 1481 - an astonishing 16 generations. Originally the family farmed only in St. Joseph, moving to Hermitage about a century ago when phylloxera swept through the region. Today Chave Hermitage Rouge and Hermitage Blanc are generally regarded as the appellation's greatest wines. In recent years Jean Louis has begun the painstaking process of restoring the steep St. Joseph terraces that...
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"Circa" formally know as "Celeste" is a blend of old-vine Roussane planted in Mauves on granitic slopes. It is the only white made by Jean Louis that comes from granitic soil. The first vintage produced was 2009 after the purchase of a historic St. Joseph domaine. The wine has made such an impression on Jean-Louis that he continues to plant more Roussanne.
Capturing scents of almond and acacia on the nose with wonderfully-textured white stone and fruits on the palate, complemented with a long, elegant finish
There’s beautiful, creamy fruit purity to this rich yet energetic version, with fleshy yellow apple and golden plum threaded with dried herbs and racy mineral energy. Shows just the barest kiss of oak on the well-meshed finish, with bitter pithiness. Delicious, lush and bright.
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Jean-Louis Chave makes Circa from a parcel of roussanne grown on granite, an interesting counterpoint to the roussanne he grows in Hermitage on clay and limestone (also recommended here). While it has roussanne’s russetted flavors—roasted almonds and pears, savory honey and spice—it feels brisk and firm, energized by fresh, cool acidity that tempers the wine’s oily richness and focuses the attention instead on its delicacy.
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The creamed pear, yellow apple and white peach flavors are layered seamlessly, framed with alluring brioche and salted butter notes, all flowing through the finish in lockstep. Drink now through 2023.
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Classic granite notes of cassis and darker cherries, graphite, crushed stone, pepper, and violets all emerge from the 2023 Saint Joseph Offerus. Medium-bodied, focused, and beautifully balanced on the palate, with textbook Saint Joseph tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a crisp, mineral-laced finish, it will evolve nicely over the coming 8-10 years. Drink 2025-2035.
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