Description
Jean-Louis Chave Sélection Saint-Joseph Circa 2020
Jean-Louis Chave Sélection is the négociant arm of legendary Hermitage producer Domaine Jean-Louis Chave, focusing on northern Rhône terroirs with family precision. Circa is pure old-vine Roussanne from Saint-Joseph, with the 2020 vintage showing ripe stone fruit, nutty depth and mineral vibrancy in a textured, harmonious style—an ideal introduction to Rhône whites with 8–10 years aging potential.
Vinification & Style
From granite slopes near Mauves (Clos Forentin vineyard), limited to under 400 cases annually.
Hand-harvested, 100% barrel-fermented with native yeast.
Aged 12–14 months in neutral French oak to enhance minerality and aromatic purity.
Tasting Notes
Color: Bright straw-yellow
Aroma: Peach, almond, acacia, honey, citrus oil, stone minerals and ginger hints
Palate: Medium-full with creamy texture, concentrated stone fruit, bright acidity, and a long mineral-spiced finish
Critical Acclaim
Jeb Dunnuck: 92 pts — “Pure and classic northern Rhône Roussanne benchmark”
Decanter (similar vintage): 93 pts — “Classic St-Joseph with honeycomb and stone fruit, elegant length”
Vivino average: 4.2 — Tree fruit and earthy notes dominant
Decanting: 30–60 minutes
Serving Temperature: 10–12°C
Food Pairing: Garlic steamed crab, salt & pepper squid, roast goose, oyster with oyster sauce, scallop with glass noodle, cheese-baked lobster, honey-glazed chicken wings
Special Info: Chave family négociant label from 4-ha Clos Forentin old vines, ultra-limited production (<400 cases/year), granite soils deliver lively minerality superior to many peers, gains complexity with age
Origin: France, Rhône Valley, Saint-Joseph
Type: White Wine
Grape Variety: 100% Roussanne (old vines)
ABV: 14.0%
Volume: 750ml