With each passing vintage, we are more impressed with Lionel Faury’s wines from the slopes of Chavanay, in the heart of the northern Rhône. In a region dominated by a few large players from a commercial standpoint and by a select handful of “cult” producers in the eyes of the greater public, it is refreshing to see and taste the honesty and humility with which Lionel goes about his craft.
    These words could also be used to describe Lionel’s wines, elegant beauties that exhibit delicacy and nuance in both colors. These are not wines designed to win blind tastings or score high points; rather, they are delightful expressions of terroir characterized by graceful structures and seductive floral aromatics.
     The 2015 Saint Joseph blanc falls perfectly in line with the house style: there is not a single sharp edge, only tender, succulent, ripe peachy fruit, plus a touch of honeysuckle to round things out. The freshness is remarkable for a warm year like 2015, and Lionel has found the perfect balance between barrel- and tank-aged portions of the blend. It is yet another release from this under-the-radar young talent that is well worth your table—you will be awed by the absolute deliciousness of Lionel's white. –Anthony Lynch