Restless experimentation and investment continues chez Monier. The latest toys in the pursuit of perfection are very expensive concrete eggs for the whites; and he has been experimenting with the preservative properties of pyramids. Jean-Pierre has been farming organically since the 1980s and biodynamically since 1993, long before this extreme and fascinating branch of organic viticulture became fashionable: his wines are certified by Ecocert. Whatever his means, he unfailingly produces wonderfully flavoursome, well-oaked wines which are hugely admired within France and seem to go down very well with sommeliers at smart London restaurants too!

Product Code: MOP114

Both reds are 100% Syrah, destemmed after 12 hours cold soak, then given a temperature controlled fermentation before spending 12 months in barrel. The straight Saint Joseph comes from 30 year old vines near the cellar and goes into about 20% new oak. The low-yielding production of Terre Blanche (about 30% new oak, all aged naturally for seven years) derives from limestone/clay parcels on more steeply pitched vineyards.

Early days, but a wine of such finesse, melding vanilla and clove oak aromas with silky blackberry fruit. Now-2024