# L'Appel des Sereines Syrah (2022)

- **Producer:** François Villard
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** Northern Rhône, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €16
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black pepper, violet, black cherry, blackberry, cloves, vanilla, earth, wet stones

## About this wine

L'Appel des Sereines Syrah is a 100% Syrah wine from François Villard, produced under the IGP Collines Rhodaniennes classification in the Northern Rhône region of France. The wine's name, translating to 'The Call of the Serene,' suggests a connection to its tranquil origins. François Villard, a former chef, established his estate in 1989, focusing on producing balanced wines that reflect their terroir. His winemaking philosophy emphasizes finesse, freshness, and fruit, with a move towards restrained oak usage. The vineyards are planted on decomposed granite soils, a characteristic that influences the wine's profile. The estate has held official organic certification since August 2022, reflecting a commitment to sustainable viticulture.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'L'Appel des Sereines' translates to 'The Call of the Serene'.
- François Villard transitioned from being a chef to a winemaker.
- The estate has been officially certified organic since August 2022.
- Decomposed granite soils are a key feature of the vineyard.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and supple yet firm tannins are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in richer meat dishes. Its bright acidity can cut through richness, while its fruit and spice notes can echo or contrast with the flavors of the food, creating a harmonious dining experience.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for L'Appel des Sereines Syrah involves vinifying each plot separately to allow for precise blending. Fermentation is carried out using indigenous yeasts, with the must pressed directly into French oak for cool fermentation. The wine then undergoes a 10-month aging period in French oak on its fine lees. The estate employs manual farming practices and has been officially certified organic since August 2022. Winemaking decisions are guided by a philosophy that prioritizes the expression of terroir, balance, and freshness, with a conscious effort to limit the influence of new oak and reduce SO2 levels.