Jolie Bouche: A Smooth, Bold, and Beautiful Syrah
Jolie Bouche, which translates from French to “pretty mouth,” is a fitting name for this 100% Phelps Clone Syrah, known for its exceptionally smooth mouthfeel. This wine invites you to savor its complexity and texture, offering a stunning expression of both the vineyard and the craft behind its creation.
The Winemaking Process
Jolie Bouche is crafted using a combination of concrete and stainless-steel fermentation—two methods that provide distinct textures and flavors. The concrete fermentation enhances the wine’s earthy qualities, while the stainless steel contributes freshness and precision. This dual fermentation approach, along with the inclusion of 100% whole clusters and foot crushing, brings out the fullest expression of the vineyard’s unique terroir.
The Vineyard
Oldfield Estate Vineyard, one of our three Estate Vineyards, is located at 1,400 feet elevation within the Yakima Valley AVA, produces some of our most distinctive wines. The rocky, ancient soils—formed above the Missoula Flood Plain—are rich in history and contribute to the vineyard’s unique terroir. Combined with a warm, consistent climate, these conditions yield Syrah grapes with both elegance and power, resulting in a wine that is both nuanced and robust.
Tasting Notes
From the moment you open the bottle, Jolie Bouche draws you in with a complex nose, thanks to the inclusion of crushed stems and the influence of concrete fermentation. Aromas of dried cranberries, white pepper, and a touch of bleu cheese unfold gracefully, hinting at the wine’s bold and intriguing profile. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and layered, with rich flavors that deepen over time. Its robust character makes it a wine perfect for aging, promising even more depth and warmth as it develops. Whether you’re sipping it on a chilly evening or letting it mature in your cellar, Jolie Bouche offers a cozy and satisfying experience.
Food Pairings
Jolie Bouche is an exceptional wine to enjoy on its own or paired with food. Its bold, layered flavors make it perfect for a variety of dishes. Here are some pairing ideas:
- Grilled meats – Steak, lamb chops, or smoked ribs.
- Cheeses – Bleu cheese, aged cheddar, or a charcuterie board.
- Hearty stews – Beef bourguignon or a rich braised short rib dish; try Yiayia’s braised short ribs for the ultimate EFESTĒ pairing!
Reviews and Accolades
Our 2020 Jolie Bouche has received notable acclaim, including:
- Owen Bargreen: “The 2020 ‘Jolie Bouche’ Syrah underwent 100% whole cluster fermentation and comes from the Oldfield Vineyard in the Yakima Valley. The aromatic range is outstanding with Umami notes alongside white pepper black tea and blackberry cobbler. The palate is fresh and rich with serious texture and underlying verve. Drink 2023-2029”—94 Points
- International Wine Report: “100% Syrah fruit from the Oldfield Estate Vineyard that has a small percentage of stem inclusion during fermentation. Medium to dark plum core with a lighter purple rim, this is a meaty, big Syrah that boasts notes of spiced blue plum, ground peppercorn, smoked ribs, powdered graphite, and toasted spice. I’ve always loved Efeste’s Syrahs and this is a great example of their style. Tannins are still crunchy but it’s balanced out by the lovely acidity and the earthy and blue-fruit finish.”—93 Points
The Syrahs of EFESTĒ
Jolie Bouche is part of our exceptional Syrah portfolio at EFESTĒ, each with its own unique characteristics and winemaking techniques. If you’re a Syrah fan, you may also enjoy exploring:
- Ceidleigh Estate Syrah
Sourced from our Angela’s Vineyard in Red Mountain AVA, this Syrah has a distinctive aroma of freshly baked blueberry muffins, interwoven with subtle floral notes. On the palate, it’s smooth and feminine, with silky tannins and a velvety finish from the new French oak puncheons used in its aging. It’s balanced, elegant, and incredibly approachable. - Eléni Syrah
Crafted from some of the oldest Syrah vines in Washington State, located at the legendary Red Willow Vineyard in the Yakima Valley AVA, Eléni Syrah offers bold aromas of black and purple fruits, dried dates, licorice, and grilled olives. With layers of flavor and a perfect balance of richness and elegance, it’s a Syrah that showcases both power and finesse.
If you love Syrah, don’t miss our Syrah Bundle, which includes all three of these exceptional wines—perfect for your own collection or as a gift for any wine lover on your list.
Visit our tasting rooms in Woodinville or Seattle, or buy online to enjoy our Jolie Bouche Syrah.
Wine Club Members save up to 20% on all wines. Join the EFESTĒ Wine Club today to start saving!
