Les Jarlotiers is a brand exclusive to Vinatis and it consists of six Rhone Valley wines. I found the Syrah 2024 and the Crozes-Hermitages 2024 of the lineup both quite unripe, while the cheap Cotes du Rhone 2024 amazed me, it’s a standout for its category and price. The Saint-Joseph is a step up in price (15€) but also in quality – a fascinating syrah.

Having an 12,5% ABV this is not green at all, but lively and fresh instead It’s so pure, an exemplary expression of Northern Rhone syrah without oak flavours, oozing cool climate and lots of spice including the classic black pepper. Light on its feet yet has some seriousness, it nails the balance between drinkability and structure – ready now yet will age, too. It’s hard to imagine a more refined syrah. Outstanding, 91 points.