# Poivre et Sol Saint Joseph Syrah (2021)

- **Producer:** François Villard
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €33
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black pepper, black cherry, black plum, cloves, vanilla, leather, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

The Poivre et Sol Saint Joseph Syrah from François Villard is a red wine from the AOC Saint-Joseph in the Northern Rhône Valley, France. Crafted from 100% Syrah, the wine is a product of François Villard's domaine, established in 1989. Villard, who transitioned from a career in gastronomy, focuses on producing authentic wines that express their terroir, emphasizing finesse and minerality. The Saint-Joseph appellation is known for its Syrah wines grown on steep, granite terraces, contributing to the wine's character. The 2021 vintage reflects the conditions of its growing year in the Northern Rhône.

## Interesting facts

- François Villard began his winemaking journey after a career in gastronomy.
- His vineyards are situated on challenging, steep granite slopes.
- The domaine achieved organic certification in August 2022.
- Wines are fermented with native yeasts for a more authentic expression.

## Food pairing

The wine's structure, with its medium+ to high tannins and medium+ acidity, makes it well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats and game. Its inherent peppery notes can echo or enhance herbaceous elements in dishes.

## Wine making process

The Poivre et Sol Saint Joseph Syrah undergoes fermentation with native yeasts, with most red grapes fermented using full clusters for 8 to 15 days. Parcels are vinified separately before blending. The wine is then aged for 15 to 20 months in a mix of 228-liter oak barrels, foudres, and cone-shaped tanks, with minimal intervention. Harvests are conducted parcel by parcel, with grapes hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness. François Villard's approach emphasizes sustainable vineyard management, with the domaine achieving organic certification in August 2022.