St. Joseph 2004 "Offerus"The Offerus project started in 1995. Jean-Louis set out to create a St. Joseph which is truly expressive of the Eastern granite slopes of the Ardeche region, rather than a homogenized version not expressive of its roots. Jean-Louis found ten domaines with which to work and in order to ensure the quality of the wines, he is in contact with the domaines throughout the growing season, during the harvest and through the vinification. Because of this investment of time, Jean-Louis has encouraged them to work in a more organic fashion, to produce lower yields, and to learn the importance of making a wine expressive of the terroir specific to their soil.
"Deep ruby. Musky blackberry, candied plum and smoked meat aromas. Fresh and racy on the palate, showing red and dark berry flavours underpinned by juicy acidity and framed by silky tannins. Finishes on a spicy note, with excellent length. Chave vinified with a portion of the stems to help increase the fragrance."
90 points, International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 2007