Maison Jean-Baptiste Souillard Saint-Joseph

Jean-Baptiste Souillard’s Saint-Joseph is a focused, site-driven Syrah that exemplifies the precision and clarity possible in the Northern Rhône when technique serves terroir. Sourced from steep, high-elevation vineyards in Sarras, Andance, and Saint-Pierre-de-Bœuf, each rooted in decomposed granite, the wine benefits from diurnal shifts and mineral-rich soils that enhance aromatic lift and phenolic definition. Souillard employs a partial whole-cluster fermentation with native yeasts, preserving both stem-derived structure and aromatic complexity. Aging takes place in used demi-muids, allowing micro-oxygenation without imparting overt oak influence. The result is a Syrah of tension and finesse. Aromatically, it leans savory with blackcurrant, olive, cracked pepper, and crushed violet, underscored by graphite and a whisper of smoked charcuterie. The palate is mid-weight but linear, driven by fine-grained tannins and a brisk natural acidity that maintains energy from start to finish. Fruit remains pure and restrained, with bramble fruit and dark cherry unfolding alongside a flinty, sanguine core. Souillard’s Saint-Joseph is crafted for nuance rather than power, offering an age-worthy alternative to more extracted regional styles. It pairs seamlessly with grilled game, duck breast, or lentil-based dishes, and stands as a benchmark example of Syrah expressed through minimal intervention and maximum site transparency.

Vineyard Area: 0.10 ha (0.25 ac)

Varietal: Syrah

Vine Age: Planted in the early 1970s and the 2000s

Terroir: From three parcels in the communes of Sarras, Andance, and Saint-Pierre de Boeuf, east-facing, 250-300 m elevation, granite-based soils.

Viticulture: Sustainable

Vinification: 60-100% whole-cluster, 2-3-week ambient yeast fermentation and maceration with pump-overs, aged for 13-18 months in used barrels, no fining or filtration, minimal SO2 added during vinification and adjusted after if needed.