St Joseph wines are, IMHO, highly under-rated. The problem lies in the
variance in quality. The St. Joseph appelation encompasses a vast region,
most known for the vineyards right across the Rhone from Tain Hermitage, but
extending way north and west. And the wines are as divers as the region.
We've found a number of really nice St. Joseph's - and all are at great
prices, I think simply because of the reputation of the appelation. I don't
think we've tried the 'Offerus' cuvee - but wll certainly look for it now
that i've read yours and Joe's comments - thanks!


"Richard Neidich" > wrote in message
ink.net...
> Today my wife, and 18 year son and self went to see a movie called "The
> Illusionist". Great Movie...highly recommend...no this is not stealth
> marketing.
>
> After the movie we went to the Dean and Deluca Wine bar and did a couple 2
> oz tasting pours with a charcuterie plate of salami, cheese, pate,
> mustards, black olive tapinade and rustic breads.
>
> My wife started with a Miner Merlot followed by a Worthy Cab.
> I had a Mt Eden Pinot Noir Santa cruz followed by a JL Chave Saint Josept
> Offerus 2003.
>
> This Chave was outstanding and I plan to aquire a case.
>
> From what I gather it is either all Syrah or mostly all Syrah. Very
> elegant wine. Great flavor. Seemed like a good food wine. Rhone.
>
> These wines rarely have been seen in Charlotte. Glad to have tried
> tonight. Earthy, complex, integrated dry tannin...long finish but
> flavorful from beginning to end.
>
> Amazing PQR..would be about $25-30 at retail.
>
>