Gaillard's St Joseph comes mainly from vineyards located in the communes of Chavaney, Malleval and Limony. The soils here are lighter with plenty of granite, which tends to produce well-structured wines. The individual vineyard parcels are kept separate and partially destemmed before being crushed. Each parcel is then vinified separately "to bring out its own individuality" to quote Gaillard, allowing more choice when the time comes to assemble the wine. Ageing is in 20% new Allier and Nevers barrels for 18 to 20 months. Bottled unfiltered, this is a truly fine, pure and fragrant Syrah with juicy, red berried fruit and polished tannins. Wonderful wine for the money. Sheer class. It should also age well over 3-8 years.