From the granite soils on the western side of the Rh?ne River, the 2013 St Joseph Esprit de Granit is another sensational wine from what I increasingly think of as one of the best co-ops in the world. Powdered rock, black currants, licorice and wood smoke emerge from this medium plus-bodied, elegant and fresh Saint Joseph that continue to gain depth and richness with time in the glass. Aged 12 months in 50% new French oak and bottled without finning or filtration, it’s a rock star from an up and coming appellation. Give it a few years in the cellar and enjoy bottles over the following decade.