Established in 1933, Cave de Tain is a leading French cooperative located in northern Rhone near the slope of Hermitage. It only produces Syrah based red varietals from this region. Cave de Tain crafts five grand cru wines and is the largest producer of AOC wines in the northern Rhône.

Saint Joseph, situated in northern Rhone, is separated into six communes. The vineyards were originally planted by the Greeks and later cultivated by the Romans.In the 15th century it was among the favorite wines in the French court of Louis XII. It was named after Saint Joseph by the Jesuits in the 17th century. In 1956 it was recognized with it’s own AOC

This 100% based Syrah is very expressive with a bright ruby color and aromas of fresh, macerated red fruits and dried flowers. In the core there is an abundance of juicy cherries and black raspberries backed up with saddle leather, tea and sweet cola. The texture is silky and elegant from front to back. These wines are some of the best values in the Northern Rhone.

By W Peter Hoyne