Vincent Paris might be shy and soft spoken, but his Northern Rhone Syrahs are nothing like the man. These are wines that are bold, pure, and assertive, exactly the qualities I look for in Syrah(s) from the grape's genetic birthplace.
Vincent is a true vigneron in the sense that he spends equal amounts of time in his vineyards and his cellars, overseeing all aspects of the growing and making of his wines. Even though he is fairly new on the scene, he has already moved into the upper echelon of growers and producers in one of France's most esteemed regions.
When I tasted Vincent's 2024 Selection Syrah, his entry-level red, I was blown away; when my rep told me the price, I was flabbergasted. Here's a wine that is just brimming with wonderful Northern Rhone Syrah character -- cassis, cracked black pepper, mocha, earth, and smoked meat come roaring out of the glass of this full-bodied, complex, and joyful red wine.
Did I mention that it was just $18.99/bottle best price? I don't believe I did, but I can't stress enough how righteous this juice is. Vincent's uncle is none other than Robert Michel, one of the all-time great producers of the region, and Paris trained with his uncle and made his first wines under his watch.
Today, he is an independent grower and producer, and in a good year, he'll make 2,500 cases total, and he makes 6 different wines. His Selection Syrah is comprised entirely of Syrah from younger vines (planted in the early 1990's) situated in Crozes-Hermitage, and it is a great introduction to Vincent's signature style.
Once you've fallen in love with this, you should try Paris' incredible and also value-priced Cornas, a wine that is getting a ton of press and praise. Until then, sip away on this silky, savory, and satisfying Syrah on these first cool nights of autumn.
$18.99/bottle is the best price, there are no further discounts, and it's one of the finest Northern Rhone Syrah values out there!
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
