Which red grape variety is predominantly used in Saint-Joseph?

Saint-Joseph is a wine appellation located in the Northern Rhône Valley of France, and it is primarily known for producing red wines predominantly from the Syrah grape variety. This grape thrives in the region's granite and schist soils, resulting in wines that are typically full-bodied with flavors of dark fruits, pepper, and floral notes.

Syrah's unique characteristics lend themselves well to the climatic conditions of Saint-Joseph, which include warm summers and cool nights—ideal for the ripening of grapes while retaining acidity. The Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) regulations for Saint-Joseph specify that red wines must be made primarily from Syrah, allowing for the use of minimal amounts of other varieties, typically white grapes like Marsanne and Roussanne, but they are not predominant.

In contrast, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are primarily associated with Bordeaux and are not significant in the production of Saint-Joseph. Pinot Noir, while a prominent grape in Burgundy and some sparkling wine regions, does not play a role in the Saint-Joseph wines. Therefore, the emphasis on Syrah as the predominant grape variety is key to understanding the identity and characterization of wines produced in this appellation.