2022 Dm de La Roche Paradis Saint Joseph Rouge La Bergerie, Northern Rhone

Domaine de La Roche Paradis Saint Joseph Rouge La Bergerie is a vibrant and soulful Syrah from the granite hillsides of the Northern Rhône, crafted with precision and integrity by Yann Menager. Known for his quiet, hands-on approach and deep respect for site, Menager is one of the region’s most compelling artisan winemakers. His wines reflect the raw beauty of their origins — expressive, energetic, and honest.

La Bergerie is a small, organically farmed parcel located in the southern reaches of the Saint Joseph appellation, where steep slopes and decomposed granite soils yield Syrah with lifted aromatics, bright acidity, and refined tannins. Everything is done by hand in the vineyard, with a clear focus on soil health, biodiversity and balance.

In the cellar, Yann employs whole bunch fermentation, wild yeasts, and long maceration with minimal extraction. The wine is aged in neutral oak barrels to preserve freshness and mineral clarity. There is no fining, filtration, or heavy oak influence — just pure Syrah expression.

In the glass, La Bergerie offers notes of blackberry, raspberry, violets, cracked pepper, and crushed rock. The palate is medium-bodied and detailed, with taut structure, fresh acidity and a savoury finish that speaks of granite and garrigue. It’s Syrah that leans toward elegance rather than power, with a clarity that sets it apart.

Ideal with chargrilled duck, braised lamb shank, or lentils with roasted root vegetables. It will drink beautifully now with a short decant but also has the structure to evolve over the next 8 to 10 years.

800 dozen produced. Brilliant wine in 2022 with more depth and structure than previously and will age well too.