The Guigal Estate was founded in 1946 by Etienne Guigal in Ampuis, a small ancient village and cradle of the Cote-Rotie appellation. It shelters a unique vineyard where the vines and the wines have been famous for 2,400 years. Arriving in the region in 1924 at the age of 14, Etienne began his career at Vidal-Fleury, participating in its development and working his way up to the position of cellar-master before leaving to establish his own company. He has vinified 67 harvests in Cote-Rotie.

In 1961, although still very young, Marcel Guigal took over management of the establishment from his father who was stricken suddenly with total blindness. In 1973, his wife Bernadette joined him and they worked together to develop the family business. In 1975, their son Philippe was born and is today the estate’s winemaker. With his wife Eve, he represents the third generation to continue the family business, in the service of the great wines of the Rhone Valley.

Their hard work and perseverance enabled them to purchase the Vidal-Fleury Establishment in the mid ‘80s and in 1995, they acquired the famous Chateau d’Ampuis, an ancient fort built in the 12th century, later repurposed into a Renaissance chateau during the 16th century. In a state of neglect and terrible disrepair, Guigal has taken on a colossal renovation, spanning nearly 11 years with over 100 people working on the project.

The Chateau d’Ampuis has become the headquarters of the Guigal Estate while the offices and the cellars remain in the ancient small village of Ampuis. While their vineyards span the length and breadth of what the Rhone Valley offers, the heart of the winery’s production is still Cote-Rotie, whose ultimate expression can be found in Guigal’s most famous releases: La Landonne, La Turque, and La Mouline.

This 2019 Guigal St Joseph Lieu Dit St Joseph is a remarkable red wine from the Rhone region of France. Crafted with the Syrah grape variety, it showcases the elegance and complexity that this varietal is known for. With a deep red color that glistens in the glass, this wine is visually captivating, setting the stage for the sensory experience to come.

On the nose, the wine reveals a symphony of aromas. Sunny red and black fruits dance alongside notes of spice, smoked game, and flowery incense. Each sniff brings a new layer of complexity, enticing the senses and drawing you further into the glass. The integration of oak is seamless, adding depth and nuance to the bouquet.

As you take your first sip, the full-bodied nature of this wine becomes apparent. The sweet tannins caress the palate, creating a round and sexy profile. The flavors of blackberry, cassis, and olive intertwine with exotic spice, leaving a lasting impression. The acidity adds a refreshing touch, bringing balance and vibrancy to the wine.

Critics have been enamored by this wine's charm. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it an impressive score of 95, praising its flamboyant style and great finish. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also commended its velvety mouthfeel and lingering finish, awarding it a score of 94. Vinous described the wine as having fine definition, appealing sweetness, and a long, supple finish, awarding it the same score of 94.

This 2019 Guigal St Joseph Lieu Dit St Joseph is a wine that can be enjoyed now or aged for the next 10-15 years. Its complexity and depth will continue to evolve, rewarding those who have the patience to let it develop further. Whether you savor it on its own or pair it with a hearty meal, this wine is sure to delight and leave a lasting impression.