The 2022 Equis Saint-Joseph is a beautifully classical and mineral-driven Northern Rhône Syrah from Maxime Graillot and Thomas Schmittel’s highly regarded Equis project. Sourced from steep granitic vineyards in Saint-Jean-de-Muzols — the historic heart of Saint-Joseph opposite Hermitage — the wine comes from organically farmed old vines planted between the 1950s and 1980s. Fermented with partial whole bunches and aged in older Burgundy barrels and tronconic oak vats, the 2022 reflects a more traditional and terroir-focused expression of Saint-Joseph, emphasising freshness, structure and granite-driven tension over sheer power.
The nose reveals black cherry, cassis and wild blueberry layered alongside violet, graphite, cracked pepper and subtle smoky spice, giving the wine remarkable aromatic lift and Rhône character. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity and a tightly wound mineral core. Layers of dark berry fruit, savoury herbs and iron-rich earthiness unfold with excellent freshness and precision, finishing long, peppery and beautifully persistent with impressive structure and finesse. Critics and merchants consistently highlight the wine’s rocky minerality, floral lift and “old-school Northern Rhône” personality, noting its faithful expression of the Saint-Jean-de-Muzols terroir.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2022 Equis Saint-Joseph is a superb modern Northern Rhône Syrah — mineral, savoury and beautifully refined with outstanding freshness and structure. Perfect with roast lamb, duck breast, venison, mushroom dishes or chargrilled meats. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar comfortably through 2037+.
