E. Guigal

The Northern Rhône wine region exploded in popularity in the mid 80s and it was really down to two people, Etienne Guigal and Robert Parker. Etienne took over the vineyard in 1946, but it was his promotional efforts of the region, combined with Robert Parker, that put his wines on the map. Soon the Rhône Valley became famous as a wine region producing some of the most seductively elegant and aromatic wines in the world.
E. Guigal is truly a family business with Marcel, Etienne’s son, taking over the business in 1961 with the help of wife Bernadette and today their son Phillipe and wife Eve representing the third generation of this iconic property.

The appellation of Saint-Joseph
Enjoyed at the table of kings, this illustrious wine’s name hails back to the 16th Century and the Jesuit monks of Tournon. The reds from this A.O.C are made from Syrah and the whites from Marsanne and Rousanne. These grape varieties are grown on a South to South East facing steeply sloped vineyard with granite soils and produce elegant, luscious wines.

Interview with Philippe Guigal, General Director and Winemaker
What is the key to produce quality wines in the Rhône Valley?
A lot of good wines are produced nowadays but for me, the difference between a good wine and an outstanding wine is the accumulation of details. The more you pay attention to details, the more you can reach a higher level of quality.

You are the third generation of the E. Guigal family running the business, what have been the most important lessons taught by your predecessors?
My grandfather and father did not set out to produce iconic wines but we are in a fantastic world where you learn every day and can always provide more efforts to reach a higher quality. Therefore, I would say that my predecessors taught me passion and involvement.

What is the best food pairing for your Saint-Joseph Rouge?
I would go for a good grilled steak with pepper. Simple but so good and efficient; a bit like Saint-Joseph!

“Over and above the cultural and patrimonial aspects, all the attention which goes into each stage of the winemaking process is focussed on bringing intense, sometimes unexpected, pleasure. A great wine should be enjoyed and shared in good company and if it arouses passion and emotion then this wine from the Maison Guigal will have achieved its true meaning”
Philippe Guigal