The 2020 Chapoutier Le Clos Saint-Joseph is a remarkable Syrah from the renowned Northern Rhone region in France. With its dense black fruit and overlaid violets, this wine exhibits the classic Mauves style of Saint-Joseph. Upon first sip, the palate is greeted with a peppery and spicy sensation, adding depth and complexity to the overall tasting experience.
This full-bodied red wine manages to strike a perfect balance between richness and heaviness. While it feels dense, it avoids being overly thick, creating a harmonious and elegant mouthfeel. The tannins are chalky yet melting, reminiscent of pure cocoa, offering a luxurious texture that lingers on the palate.
The integration of oak in this wine is well-executed, with just the right amount of presence to enhance the overall flavor profile. The finish is lifted and intense, showcasing an impressive concentration of flavors and deep, dark tannins. The 2020 Le Clos Saint-Joseph demonstrates exceptional balance and promises to be one of the standout vintages of this esteemed wine.
Decanter awarded this wine an impressive score of 95 points, highlighting its intense concentration and well-balanced nature. They recommend enjoying this wine between 2027 and 2035, allowing it to further evolve and reveal its full potential.
Other critics have also praised the 2020 Le Clos Saint-Joseph, with Jeb Dunnuck awarding it a score of 98+. He describes the wine as pure, seamless, and utterly concentrated, showcasing the utmost refinement that Saint Joseph has to offer. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 94 points, noting its waves of black cherries and vanilla, silky texture, and long finish.
With its glass-staining ruby color, potent aromatics, and alluringly sweet fruit flavors, this wine captivates the senses. It exhibits outstanding finesse and power, with a smoky minerality that adds depth and complexity. James Suckling awarded it 95 points, praising its smoked bacon character, wild herb freshness, and radical stony minerality.
The 2020 Chapoutier Le Clos Saint-Joseph is a truly exceptional wine that showcases the best of Northern Rhone Syrah. Its complexity, elegance, and age-worthiness make it a must-have for any wine enthusiast. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, this wine promises a memorable and captivating experience.