At the highest vineyard of Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné - between Tournon and Mauve -, a cross crowns the summit. This symbol serves as a reminder that for years these vines were under the control of the Jesuits. This emblem, so representative of the A.O.C. Saint-Joseph, gives its name to the red wine Jaboulet Saint Joseph Croix Des Vignes.
Winemaker Caroline Frey and her team are behind this wine that needs little introduction: pure Rhône Valley, A.O.C. Saint-Joseph, and Syrah. No further words are necessary. Here, in the northern Rhône Valley, the A.O.C. Saint-Joseph is synonymous with rigour and quality. Right on the right bank of the river, the vineyard is planted on steep slopes and terraces that were cultivated by the Greeks and the Romans. At least, that is what studies and research claim. Throughout history, these exacting standards have ensured that the reds of this denomination - known under the name Vin de Mauves - have graced the most prestigious tables (it was one of Charlemagne’s favourites) and the great classics of literature (Victor Hugo mentions it in Les Misérables). In part, this special and unique character is given by the granitic soils of the denomination, which shape and give soul to the Syrah.
Likewise, if there is something Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné can boast about, it is being one of the wineries that has placed the most importance on the type of cultivation of its vineyards. Since its inception in 1834, its proprietors (then the Jaboulet family) clearly saw that success lay in maximising respect for the soil and the ecosystem. Years have passed, factors have changed - even Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné has changed hands (it is currently owned by the Frey family) -, however, the ecological and biodynamic approach has been maintained to this day in the 113 hectares of the property.
Jaboulet Saint Joseph Croix Des Vignes is harvested in 20 Kg boxes and quickly transported to the winery. Here, the grapes are selected and inspected by the team at Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné. Throughout the process, operations are meticulously controlled, ensuring that fermentation starts smoothly with native yeasts. Finally, Jaboulet Saint Joseph Croix Des Vignes will age in barrels for about nine months.
In 1961, Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné managed to place one of its wines on the list of the world's best. Today, this title is reaffirmed year after year. Even so, who needs awards or recognitions when you have a bottle of Jaboulet Saint Joseph Croix Des Vignes?