TN: 2009 Philippe Faury St. Joseph Vieilles Vignes

WINE TALK
1

The color on this is remarkable, very dark and plummy. Suckling would be maximum pointage on the color, for sure. The vines were planted between 1937 and 1976 (according to Kermit’s website). It’s very fresh and primary now, with lots of spice flavors mingling with the dark red berry fruits. A distinct chocolate note emerges on the palate staining finish. Great acidity keeps everything fresh and bright.

2

I have been buying (and selling) this wine for several vintages and I find your note to be right on the money. It won’t please those looking for fleshy, oaky syrah, but for those who like the real deal from the northern Rhone, this is it. Didn’t Steve Edmonds, on the old board, say something to the effect that, leaving aside the likes of Chave, Clape and Allemand, this is the purest expression of syrah on the planet? I would argue little with Steve Edmonds, and I certainly wouldn’t argue with him about this. Thanks for the good note on a really good wine. [cheers.gif]

3

Thanks for the note…will look out for the '09, as I have ADORED the '05, and '07…the nose alone is worth the price of admission…lots of smoke, raspberry, blood iron, violets…I’m “trying” to hold on to a few '05’s to age them…seems like these can go awhile.

Btw, are they back to being “Philippe Faury” or is it still “Domaine Faury”??

4

Brian - my bottle says Domaine Faury. I bought these from Envoyer so you might want to try there, not sure how far they are from you.

Martin - beautiful stuff indeed. It’s hard to find wines like this that taste powerful and with a certain muscle/structure, but remain elegant and fresh tasting. Was the perfect match alongside a brisket with spicy gravy. I love Steve’s syrahs, too, so it’s no surprise if he really likes this Domaine.