# Saint-Joseph Reflet (2019)

- **Producer:** François Villard
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €43
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** olive, black cherry, blueberry, black plum, black pepper, violet, blackberry, vanilla, smoked charcuterie, spice

## About this wine

The Saint-Joseph Reflet from François Villard is a 2019 vintage red wine made from 100% Syrah, hailing from the Saint-Joseph AOC in the Northern Rhône Valley. This wine is distinguished by its characteristic peppery notes, a hallmark of the appellation. François Villard, a former chef, established his domaine and is dedicated to expressing the unique terroir of his vineyards, which are planted on steep, granite-laden slopes. The estate has embraced organic viticulture, with all vineyard work conducted by hand to ensure meticulous attention to detail and optimal grape maturity.

## Interesting facts

- François Villard transitioned from chef to winemaker in 1989.
- The estate is officially certified organic since August 2022.
- Vineyards are situated on steep hillside terraces.
- Hand-harvesting is employed to ensure optimal ripeness.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, while its peppery and herbal notes can echo or contrast with similar flavors in dishes. The acidity helps to cut through richer sauces and fats.

## Wine making process

The production of Saint-Joseph Reflet François Villard 2019 involves meticulous vineyard management, with the estate holding official organic certification since August 2022. All work in the vines is performed by hand, and harvest decisions are made on a plot-by-plot basis to ensure optimal ripeness. Following harvest, the grapes undergo fermentation, with details specific to this vintage not provided but generally characterized by careful winemaking practices. The wine is then aged in barrels; for a previous vintage, this involved 17 months in a mix of new and used oak, contributing to the wine's structure and complexity.