Domaine Stéphane Ogier - Le Passage Saint-Joseph 2022
The Domaine Stéphane Ogier, established in Ampuis in the heart of northern Rhône, has established itself as one of the major signatures of the region thanks to a parcel-based vision inspired by the greatest Burgundy estates. Heir to a long line of winemakers, Stéphane Ogier has extended his expertise beyond Côte Rôtie to reveal other prestigious terroirs in the northern Rhône valley. In Saint Joseph, he selects steep slopes planted with Syrah on poor granitic soils that force the vine to dig deep, giving the wine a remarkable mineral tension and aromatic purity. Le Passage holds a special place in the estate's range, a synthesis between the floral elegance typical of Ogier and the racé power typical of the appellation. The 2022 vintage, sunny but balanced, perfectly highlights this expressive, concentrated, and finely structured Syrah. The result is a wine of character, accessible in its youth but endowed with a beautiful reserve to evolve harmoniously.
Le Passage Saint Joseph 2022 comes from vines located on decomposed granite slopes, oriented to capture light while preserving freshness. The parcels, carefully worked with moderate yields, offer small grapes rich in color and aroma. The harvest, entirely manual, preserves the quality of the berries intact, which are then rigorously sorted. Fermentation takes place in small stainless steel or concrete vats, with gentle extraction to preserve finesse, precision, and fruit brightness. Aging continues in barrels and casks of several wines, a deliberate choice to bring patina and complexity without imposing a marked woody imprint. The 2022 vintage, thanks to its natural balance between maturity and freshness, offers a particularly harmonious expression of the cuvée, where structure and elegance combine with remarkable fluidity.
On tasting, Le Passage 2022 reveals a deep purple robe with violet reflections that betray its youth and concentration. The nose expresses itself intensely with notes of black fruits, blackberry, blackcurrant, complemented by scents of violet, peony, and a peppery touch signature of northern Syrah. On the palate, the attack is broad and straight, carried by juicy fruit and a mineral framework that brings freshness and tension. The texture is elegant, supported by fine but present tannins that structure without ever weighing down. The flavors evolve towards nuances of graphite, black olive, licorice, and sweet spices, enhancing the wine's depth and complexity. The finish, long and precise, leaves an impression of purity and persistent freshness. At the table, this Saint Joseph will beautifully accompany grilled veal chop, spiced duck breast, pan-seared ribeye, a light stew, or seasonal cuisine centered around mushrooms. It will also pair very well with aged hard cheeses or a thin tart with roasted vegetables.
Grape variety: 100% Syrah
