Septentrio

Vineyard : Septentrio comes from the latin «  septentrion »  and  alludes to the cardinal point North. These northern Rhône vines are located between 150 and 350 meters above sea level. South/southeast-facing, the plots enjoy the best hours of sunshine. The vines are planted on steep slopes. Soil is mainly composed of rocky ad crumbly granite, very shallow surface. Water drains away easily thus ensuring good ripening.  These good conditions, combined with unique geology give rise to some inimitable wines. Yields between 35 and 40 hectoliters per hectare. 100% hand-picked at the end of September.

In the cellar : 100% de-stemmed. Alcoholic fermentation in controlled temperature stainless steel tanks. Pumping-over. Long maceration of 21 days. Ageing in French oak barrels during 12 months (1/3 new barrels and 2/3 barrels that already have 1 or 2 wines). Careful ageing, with the meticulous attention paid every day by Cave Saint-Desirat wine makers to the selection and blending processes. No fining. Filtration before bottling. Septentrio brings to the fore the excellence of Saint-Joseph appellation.

Tasting : The wine has a deep and brilliant ruby red colour and reflects a nose of black ripe fruit and  berries, enhanced aromas of spices. This harmonious pairing is combined with soft and tight tannins build featuring an impressive and persistent, mineral-tinged finish.

Best after 3 to 5 years in bottle. Until 10 years of ageing potential. To open around 16°C after being decanted two hours when young. Recommended with tasty red meats in sauce or stewed games. Perfect also with mature cheeses.