Pierre and Jean Gonon, sons of the original Pierre Gonon in Saint-Joseph in the Northern Rhône, took over the domaine in 1988 and since then have elevated it into a benchmark of the appellation, while remaining true to the uncompromisingly traditional approach of their father. Les Iles Feray is 100% syrah from several vineyards on the lower slopes of Saint-Joseph, along with vineyards lying just outside the appellation's borders - thus the appellation Vin de Pays de L'Ardèche instead of Saint-Joseph. Uncertified organic farming and indigenous fermentation, with about half whole clusters. Aging for 10 months in old, 600-liter barrels. Unfiltered and 14.2% alcohol. Dark-berried fruit, coffee, gravel, and even tar, along with Northern Rhône syrah’s trademark floral notes. Beautiful texture. The wine is perfectly lovely and rewarding now, but if you have the patience to wait a few years, your discipline will be rewarded. Drink it with barbecued anything, including lamb and/or eggplant, as well as stews or aged cheeses.
