Weekly Wine Round-Up (#20)

Guigal’s Vignes de l’Hospice is one of the finest sites in the Northern Rhone Valley, grown on the vineyard directly across from Hermitage and planted on the same rock formation, dramatically perched above the town of Tournon. This 100% Syrah is sourced from an extremely steep vineyard, planted on slopes of granite with vines averaging 20-80 years old. When Marcel Guigal called 2015 “the vintage of a lifetime” and on par with 1929, 1947 and 1961, the anticipation was too much. I could not hold any longer and decided to dive into this dark beauty.

Inky colored with deep, concentrated black fruit. Full-bodied goodness with bright acidity and spicy oak. Tannins are superb.

Guigal Saint-Joseph Vignes de l’Hospice Rouge 2015 (Approx. $120)

4.3 Vivino Stars (180+ reviews)

WA 96 Points
The 2015 Saint Joseph Vignes de l’Hospice is rich and concentrated, piled high with blackberries and mulberries, yet savory, with a black olive component as well. It’s full-bodied, layered and complex, with a long, velvety finish. It should prove long-lived for a Saint Joseph. Range: 94-96

JD 97 Points
As to the 2015s, most of which were tasted from barrel, the 2015 Saint Joseph Vignes Des Hospices is going to be another one of those best to date release from this sensational vintage. Inky colored with deep, concentrated fruit, full-bodied richness, bright acidity, and background oak, it’s primordial at present, but packed with potential. Range: 94-97

WS 96 Points

This ripples with stunning raspberry and boysenberry coulis flavors, inlaid liberally with anise and apple wood notes and carrying through the well-defined finish. Lush in feel overall, with a mocha note draped over everything, keeping terrific energy in reserve. Best from 2020 through 2030.