Description
The Faury family have cultivated the northern Rhône’s steep slopes since the end of World War II, when Jean Faury settled in the village of La Ribaudy and planted both vines and orchards. In 1979, son Philippe took over and the focus shifted to winemaking and expansion of their vineyard holdings. Third generation Lionel very much follows in his father’s footsteps, seeking to craft wines which capture the essence of place be it Saint-Joseph, Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie or the Collines Rhodaniennes.
The steep, largely granitic slopes are terraced, favoured by south to south- east exposure. Lionel’s winemaking remains non-interventionist: 100% gravity flow, very light filtration on whites only, temperature controlled wild ferments in concrete tanks, and a near absence of new and small oak in favour of older demi-muids and foudres. Lionel sees himself as a ‘custodian of yesterday’s world, an agricultural artisan’, with others to follow tomorrow.
2023 vintage – Overall, juicy and supple reds, with moderate alcohols (generally ~13%). Côte Rôtie was one of the successes of the vintage in terms of volume and quality, while parts of Cornas, St-Joseph and the southern half of Crozes-Hermitage were hit by hail in July. Whites tend to be bright and fresh, suited for early drinking.
About this wine: 100% Syrah. Grown on heterogeneous velay granites in a mosaic of 17 plots in the northern part of the Saint-Joseph appellation. 35 to 70% of whole grapes macerate in open concrete vats for 3 weeks. Punching down and pumping over alternate through- out the alcoholic fermentation (made with indigenous yeasts). Gravity-loaded into large containers (foudres and demi-muids) for an aging period of 15 to 18 months. Mass blending two months before bottling, carried out by gravity, without fining or filtration.
The aromas of wild red berries are enhanced by spicy and ba- con-like aromas. With an open and friendly character, the palate opens with black forest fruits, which are enhanced by noble menthol and liquorice flavours. While young, enjoy with a platter of artisanal charcuterie or a piece of grilled or roasted pork or farm-raised veal. As the wine ages, serve with darker meats such as grilled duck breast or roast leg of lamb.
92 points, James Suckling “Pretty lavender perfume introduces this firm, restrained version, with sanguine energy — salty umami, smoked bacon, camphor — infusing a base of brambly black currant and herbs. Smoky alder wafts on the finish, where tannins keep a very firm hold.”
RRP $81 Our Special Price $69.99 when you buy 6 or more of this wine
