LOUIS CHEZE Saint Joseph ROUGE Cuvée CAROLINE 2024 75 cl

Description

Louis Chèze Saint-Joseph Red Cuvée Caroline 2024: a high-altitude Syrah from granite soils

The Saint-Joseph Rouge Cuvée Caroline 2024 from Domaine Louis Chèze perfectly illustrates the potential of Syrah in the northern Rhône Valley. This cuvée, which has been produced since the 1987 vintage, comes from a plot situated on the slopes of Brèze, at an altitude of around 300 metres and benefiting from a south-facing aspect. The terroir consists of muscovite granite, a soil type that contributes to the wine’s deep and elegant character.

The vineyard is planted with 100 per cent Syrah. The vines, which are around 40 years old, produce concentrated grapes whilst retaining the freshness characteristic of granitic terroirs. Syrah lends the wine its structure, its aromas of dark fruits and its famous floral and spicy notes.

Work in the vineyard includes, in particular, sustainable viticulture, green harvesting and manual harvesting. The bunches are carefully sorted before being completely destemmed. Vinification continues with maceration and fermentation in small, temperature-controlled vats, followed by malolactic fermentation in barrels.

Ageing lasts approximately 14 months, using a blend of new oak barrels and barrels that have previously held one or two wines. This ageing process adds depth and refines the tannic structure without masking the Syrah’s identity.

On tasting, the Louis Chèze Caroline 2024 displays a luminous garnet colour. The nose reveals notes of violet, pepper and spices, accompanied by a fruity character. The palate is full-bodied and well-structured, with lovely lingering aromas.

This 2024 Saint-Joseph red is the perfect accompaniment to a rib of beef, a leg of lamb, grilled red meats, game or a platter of regional cheeses. It will also age well in the cellar for several years.