"Very bright and racy, with mouthwatering damson plum, crushed cherry, lavender, iron and tobacco notes that race through the well-focused finish. Long and pure, with a lingering spice note. Drink now through 2011. 3,000 cases made." -Wine Spectator

"Saturated red. Powerful aromas of black raspberry, candied cherry, licorice and smoky minerals. Sweet cherry and dark berry flavors coat the palate, with dusty tannins adding gentle grip. The licorice note repeats on the finish, which clings impressively and betrays no rough edges. Pretty sexy wine, and drinking well right now." -90 points- Josh Raynolds- International Wine Cellar

"The Offerus project started with the 1995 vintage. As the appellation of St. Joseph has expanded in size over the past few years, Jean-Louis' goal was to search out small domains from the heart of the appellation, with values reflecting those which he requires for making his own wine. He wanted to recreate a St. Joseph which is truly expressive of the Eastern granitic slopes of the Ardeche region, rather than a homogenized version not expressive of its roots. Jean-Louis found ten domaines with which to work. 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 gotten them to work organically, to produce lower yields, and to learn the importance of making a wine expressive of the terroir specific to their soil.

THE TERROIRS
The vineyards used for Offerus are located in two distinct St. Joseph areas. The communities of Mauves, Tournon, and St. Jean de Muzols yield over 80% of the blend. These southern vineyard sites express tightly wound tannins, spice, and power. They add structure and depth to complete the harmony of Offerus. The remainder of the vineyards are located further north in communities around Serrieres. This soil produces wines which are more elegant, with incredible purity, definition, and focus.

VINIFICATION AND ELEVAGE
The grapes are vinified either at their respective domaines or in the cellar of JL Chave Selection in Mauves. The elevage of the wine takes place solely at JL Chave Selection. Each cuvee from the ten domaines is aged separately in oak barrels or in cement tanks with minimal amounts of sulphur for a period of 12 to 18 months. An elevage specially adapted to the needs of each cuvee allows the qualities and characteristics of each terroir to be strengthened. Once all the elements are well defined, the blending process can begin. The goal is to produce a complementary blend without sacrificing the diversity of each cuvee.-Importer

This wine scored a median of 90 points on Cellar Tracker from 19 different notes. See the reviews here: http://www.cellartracker.com//wine.asp?iWine=476466

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