Domaine Faury, Syrah, Collines Rhodaniennes IGP, Rhône Valley, France 2020

Along the steep, narrow valley that traces the northern Rhône, the appellations of Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu and Saint-Joseph take their place among the great wines of France, and Domaine Faury is one of the region’s most artisanal producers.

The steep hillsides of the northern Rhône present a challenging terrain where farming is only feasible through terracing. On these terraced slopes, the Faurys’ vines take full advantage of the southern and southeastern sun exposure, benefitting from optimum ripening. A combination of the predominately granitic soil, significant stem inclusion, soft crushing of the grapes with a pneumatic press, and temperature-controlled fermentation offer a liveliness and freshness that one does not often find in wines from the northern Rhône.

There’s a real attention to detail here, and nothing is done in haste. Unlike many other vignerons in the region, the Faurys have a strong aversion to new oak. While all the wines are wood-aged, new barrels are kept to a minimum. These wines are loaded with classic flavors and show a remarkable rustic elegance. 

• Grapes are 80% de-stemmed
• 10 day maceration in temperature-controlled cuves
• Daily pump-overs and punch-downs
• Malolactic fermentation in demi-muids
• Aged for 6 months in 3 to 10 year old demi-muids
• Vineyards are located on plateaus at higher altitude than Saint Joseph