2022 Maxime Graillot Equis Saint-Joseph Rouge, Northern Rhone

The bouquet is well fruited, cherries on wheels, has a sandy aspect that hovers nicely. The palate holds well-juiced content with a good inset of tannins, floral-violet notes of its place towards the finish. It’s an STGT St Jo from St Jean de Muzols, very faithful to its origins, down to the fine powder tannins that cluster on the finish. From 2026. 2043-45.

John Livingstone-Learmonth Drink Rhone

Granite slopes along the western bank of the Rhône River give Saint Joseph its distinctive blend of perfume and structure, and Maxime Graillot captures that character beautifully in the Equis Saint Joseph Rouge. The wine is part of the Equis project originally created through a partnership between renowned Rhône producer Michel Chapoutier and Australian winemaker Ben Riggs. Today the wines are made by Maxime Graillot, son of legendary Crozes Hermitage grower Alain Graillot, who has built a reputation for producing elegant and precise Syrah across the northern Rhône. Fruit is sourced from hillside vineyards rooted in decomposed granite soils, fermented with a gentle touch and matured to preserve the purity and freshness that define the appellation.

The colour is deep ruby with youthful purple highlights. Aromatics rise from the glass with blackberry, black cherry and plum supported by classic Syrah notes of cracked pepper, violet and subtle smoked meat. As the wine opens further layers of olive tapenade, graphite and warm spice emerge. The palate is vibrant and finely structured with silky tannins framing flavours of dark berries, spice and savoury herbs.

There is a wonderful sense of energy and mineral tension that carries through to a long, elegant finish. This Saint Joseph will drink beautifully over the next decade and pairs perfectly with grilled lamb, duck breast, charred vegetables or hearty dishes built around mushrooms and herbs.