These wines, which often contain a healthy percentage of Domaine J.L. Chave domaine fruit, are not Chave Lite, as many retailers are prone to suggest. These tend to be rounder, fruit-forward and more approachable than the domaine wines, which are extremely long-lived and deserving of extended cellaring. They have steadily become more intensely perfumed and flavored in recent years, with the Crozes-Hermitage Silène of particular interest. It’s made from vines in the granitic soils of the northern sector. At least half of the fruit comes from a young vineyard that Chaves owns, planted and farms, so one can understand the potential quality. 60%+ sourced from younger estate plots, 40% is exceptional bought fruit, all are from sites with eastern exposure & steep terraces with granite soil. Consistently viewed as one of best values in Saint Joseph. Vines range from 5-80 years old and are located in the communities of Mauves, Tournon, and St. Jean de Muzols
93 pts wine spectator: Powerful and deep, dark fruit, olive tapenade, smoked brisket, juicy midpalate of blackberry, figs, and anise, moderate tannins, iron accents, supple. decant for 30+ mins. can be cellared for several years.
93 Points, Vinous: Saturated magenta. Smoke-accented aromas of cherry, blackberry, violet and black pepper, along with a smoky mineral touch that builds in the glass. Chewy and focused in the mouth, offering nicely concentrated, spice-laced and appealingly sweet black and blue fruit flavors with a touch of licorice. The peppery quality comes back strong on a long, sappy finish that's shaped by steadily building tannins.
