Wine of the Week: 2009 Domaine Faury Saint-Joseph ‘Vieilles Vignes’

The 2009 old-vines Saint-Joseph from Domaine Faury is a stunner. Classic northern Rhone Syrah in all its intricate glory, dark plums overlaid with exotic sweet spices and violet.

Grapes grown on steep hillside vineyards and meticulous winemaking from Philippe Faury and his son Lionel yield a Saint-Joseph that drinks beautifully now but can take some age too. And take a look at the label! I’ve still got the empty bottle sitting around to admire it.

It’s terrific with spicy Asian food, anything from the grill, classic daubes and stews, and a great burger.

● Region: Northern Rhone

● Price: About $32

● Style: Classic Syrah

● What it goes with: Spicy Asian food, grilled meats, daubes, burgers.

By S. Irene Virbila

(Los Angeles Times)

(McClatchy-Tribune Information Services)