Saint Joseph AOP – Jean-François Jacouton – Souvenirs d’André – white

Description

The Cuvée Souvenirs d’André from Domaine Jean-François Jacouton is an exceptional white Saint-Joseph, made in tribute to the winemaker’s grandfather, André Jacouton, an iconic figure in the region. This wine is a blend of 50% Marsanne and 50% Roussanne, two grape varieties typical of the Rhône Valley, grown on south/south-east-facing granite terraces in the village of Vion, at the heart of the Saint-Joseph appellation. The vines, around 35 years old, are farmed sustainably, with controlled yields and meticulous work at every stage.

The grapes are harvested entirely by hand, with rigorous sorting to keep only the ripest fruit. After picking, the grapes are gently pressed, and fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, which preserves freshness and fruity aromas. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels (around 20% new barrels) for around 12 months, to develop complexity while preserving the purity of the aromas.

On tasting, the Cuvée Souvenirs d’André shows a pale yellow colour with golden tints, heralding its elegance. The nose is delicate and complex, offering floral notes of white flowers (lime blossom, jasmine) combined with oaky, vanilla touches characteristic of its barrel ageing. On the palate, the attack is round and generous, with a silky texture supported by lovely freshness that balances the wine’s richness. The aromatic bouquet reveals aromas of white fruit (peach, pear) and slightly mineral hints, before a fine, elegant length marked by a pleasant persistence.

This wine is a white Saint-Joseph of great finesse, ideal for drinking young, but with an ageing potential of 5 to 7 years. It pairs perfectly with delicate dishes such as Bresse chicken with cream and morels, sole in beurre blanc or a platter of matured cheeses.

Grape varieties: 50% Marsanne, 50% Roussanne
Soil: Granite, hillside terraces
Vinification: Gentle pressing, fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats
Ageing: 12 months in oak barrels (20% new)
Serving: 10–12 °C
Ageing potential: 5 to 7 years

The Cuvée Souvenirs d’André embodies not only the winemaker’s family heritage but also the pure expression of the unique terroir of the Saint-Joseph appellation.