2023 Dm La Roche Paradis Saint Joseph Rouge La Madone, Northern Rhone Valley

Domaine de la Roche Paradis Saint Joseph Rouge La Madone comes from steep granitic slopes in the northern stretches of the Rhône Valley, where Syrah finds one of its purest and most expressive voices. This wine is made by Yann Menager, an artisan grower and winemaker who established Roche Paradis in 2009 after working with the likes of Yves Cuilleron and François Villard. With just a handful of hectares around Saint Joseph and Condrieu, his focus is entirely on low-intervention winemaking and translating place with absolute clarity.

La Madone is grown from a high-elevation site near Limony, where old vines dig deep into decomposed granite and gneiss. Hand harvested and vinified with minimal sulphur, this Syrah sees some whole bunch fermentation for aromatic lift and structure, before ageing in old oak barrels to preserve freshness and finesse. No heavy extraction, no makeup — just the voice of Syrah in its elemental form.

The wine opens with wild blackberries, violets, cracked pepper and smoked meat, wrapped in a delicate floral note that’s typical of hillside Syrah. On the palate, it’s pure and savoury, with a stony core, firm tannins, and bright acidity. It’s both restrained and compelling — a wine that whispers its power rather than shouting it.

Perfect with grilled lamb, duck with lentils, or mushroom and truffle pasta. Cellar for 5 to 10 years to watch it evolve beautifully.