# Domaine Jean-Claude Marsanne Saint-Joseph Rouge (2021)

- **Producer:** Domaine Jean-Claude Marsanne
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** Rhône Valley, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Average price:** €45
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, black cherry, black pepper, violet, vanilla, cedar, cloves, leather, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Domaine Jean-Claude Marsanne Saint-Joseph Rouge 2021 is a 100% Syrah from the Saint-Joseph AOC in the Northern Rhône Valley. The Marsanne family has a long-standing history in Mauves, the birthplace of the appellation, with vineyards situated on steep, hand-farmed slopes. The domaine began bottling its own wines in 1970, building a reputation for elegance and finesse through traditional winemaking practices. This wine represents a classic expression of Northern Rhône Syrah, reflecting its terroir and the producer's commitment to heritage.

## Interesting facts

- The Marsanne family's winemaking history in Mauves predates the Saint-Joseph appellation.
- Vineyards are farmed on steep slopes, often requiring manual labor.
- Indigenous yeasts are used for fermentation.
- The wine is aged in a combination of large demi-muids and smaller barrels.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus to high tannins and structure are well-suited to complement the proteins in dishes like lamb, duck, and beef, creating a balanced palate. Its inherent fruit and potential herbal notes can harmonize with herbs and earthy flavors found in many of these pairings.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process at Domaine Jean-Claude Marsanne for this Saint-Joseph Rouge begins with fermentation using indigenous yeasts, a traditional method that allows for a slow, natural progression. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 to 15 months. The majority of this aging occurs in large 600-liter demi-muids, with a smaller portion in 228-liter barrels. Minimal sulfur is added after the completion of malolactic fermentation. The producer's philosophy centers on traditional practices, respecting the vineyard and allowing the Syrah grape to express its inherent qualities.