Jean-Louis Chave’s 2.8ha 'Clos Florentin' St Joseph monopole doesn’t look much from above. You can see it in the second photo, next door to an industrial unit; a similar feeling to standing in Chateau Grillet and seeing smoke belching out of the factory on the other side of the Rhône. But entering the undulating vineyard reveals it as Chave’s own garden paradise, alive with insects, flowers, ponds, and a renovated Belle Epoque era folly and amphitheatre. 100% de-stemmed Syrah from 100 year old vines, 2016 'Clos Florentin’ has gorgeous pure aromas of cassis, violets, undergrowth and something living, and although drinking fabulously today, should be even better in ten years. I really loved this bottle – fleshy power delivered with freshness and finesse. #stjoseph #chave #closflorentin @jeanlouischave