Another rock star is the 2013 Saint Joseph Les Royes, which comes from the Les Royes lieu-dit (this is a single vineyard) that lies on the southern edge of the Saint-Joseph appellation, right up next to Cornas. It’s a dramatic, steep slope that has a terrific southern exposure. It too is inky colored and offers a touch more purity and definition than the classic cuvée. Crème de cassis, licorice, peppery herbs and plenty of graphite give way to a medium-bodied, juicy, lively, pure Saint-Joseph that has fine tannin, a solid mid-palate and a big finish. It will have 10-15 years of overall longevity.