The Northern Rhone Valley is best known for its pure-Syrah reds from towns like Côte Rôtie, Hermitage, and Cornas. The region’s most famous white – Condrieu – is pure viognier, and comes from a tiny appellation in the northern sector of the region. But in fact many of the other appellations also produce white, usually from one or both of the Roussanne and Marsanne varietals.
Today we’re excited to release our first new Northern Rhône white in many years: Domaine De Boisseyt’s Saint-Joseph blanc. Made from an equal blend of Roussanne and Marsanne, this spends 8 months in large barrels (none new) ahead of bottling. The resulting wine is unlike anything else in our portfolio, and simply delicious.
The Marsanne varietal produces rich, exotic, tropical notes of pears and peaches; the Roussanne brings freshness, savoriness, and a crisp minerality to the blend. Together they are an expressive, generous, captivating combination.
The first thing we look for in a white Rhône blend is freshness – without it the wines easily slip into flatness – and indeed today’s wine is expertly balanced. The nose is bright and clean with citrus, pear, melon, and no toast. The palate is juicy and mouthwatering, with orchard fruit, straw and nectarine.
Pair this with grilled fish or fresh goat cheese. Or earmark some for your Easter Sunday table.
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De Boisseyt St-Joseph blanc 2021
bottle price: $38