Saint-Esprit is a unique wine within the appellation of Cotes-du-Rhône. The harsh prevailing Mistral wind, spawned by variations of pressure in the Rhône's north to south microclimates, is one of the essential factors in the vines development. Cuvee Saint-Esprit comes from a small valley nestled in the northern part of the Ardeche. Vineyards here are planted on granite, to southerly facing slopes near the villages of Saint-Julien and-Saint-Alban. Authorized maximum yields are a scant 2.6 tons/acre, mostly of Syrah with a little Grenache.

High seasonal rainfall, hot temperatures and abundant sunshine are characteristic of Cotes-du-Rhône. All the grapes are de-stemmed, fermentation and maceration takes place in closed vats for a fortnight. Daily pumpovers ensure maximum extraction of flavour and good colour. After de-vatting and pressing, racking and completion of malolactic, a third of the parcels are transferred to a selection of seasoned oak barrels to integrate and develop during a term of maturation. The remainder is kept in vats to preserve fruit aromas, a course of regular rackings allow components to stabilise naturally. After coming of age, Saint Esprit is assembled and bottled following a light filtration.