Chave and the Gonon brothers have made clear that Saint-Joseph has the capacity for producing exceptional expressions of Syrah.

Today, we're happy to present another name: Jean-Claude Marsanne.

Marsanne is based in Mauves, the same village as Gonon. The methods are similarly traditional, delivering wines of extreme purity, with an edginess that we love.

There is likely no better place to witness the aromatics Syrah is capable of, than in the southern section of Saint-Joseph. In short, Marsanne delivers a delicious, perfumed and rugged expression of Saint-Joseph.

It's taken the world some time to catch up with Marsanne. If you haven't heard of them, it's no surprise. Production is small and most of it is sold to private clients and restaurants. Slowly though, their reputation has reached stateside.

The 2014 shows Jean-Claude Marsanne in full glory. It has gorgeous aromatics - bright red fruits, granite minerality, game, meaty notes and lifted floral top notes. The palate combines a suppleness with the perfect amount of rustic grip. While the future bodes well, the wine is dangerously drinkable.

In the past five years, the Northern Rhône has exploded and prices have gone vertical. I'm very happy to offer Jean-Claude Marsanne's Saint-Joseph. Finding wines with this level of interest and soil inflected honesty at this price point is difficult, and in the Northern Rhône it's nearly impossible.

To order, email offers@crushwineco.com

or call the store at (212) 980-9463.

Ian McFadden

Director, Fine & Rare Wine
Crush Wine & Spirits