2023 Aurélien Chatagnier Saint-Joseph "Zélée", Rhône Valley, FranceABOUT THIS WINE The 2023 Zle is 100% Syrah sourced from steep, granitic slopes in the northern reaches of Saint Joseph, where cooler exposures and rocky soils deliver intensity with lift. Hand harvested and fermented with native yeasts, the wine sees partial whole cluster fermentation, enhancing aromatic complexity and structure. Aging occurs in mostly neutral oak to preserve purity of fruit and terroir expression. On the nose, expect violet, cracked

The vines are dry farmed and no chemicals are used (pesticides

100% dry-farmed Cinsault from a small vineyard in Guarilihue Alto

The result is honest

and the extremely old vines—many still on original rootstock—yield small

patient and methodical… but what makes him tick most of all

with small barrels used for the red wines

A tiny portion of grapes are held back

Only the truly dedicated would decide to make their living there

the Pinot Noir is conveyed to stainless steel tanks for a cold skin maceration

The wine is then moved to a 1

which contribute to the distinctive character and structure of their wines

Their Mission Statement is simply stated