Our tasting impressions
This is the kind of vintage in which this Saint Joseph Rouge really struts its stuff. All of its nuances and charms are on full display as a result of the wine's fine balance. Really good Saint Joseph, like this, offers such remarkable value in Rhône Syrah and has the added benefit of gentler tannins than some of the top dogs of the region. So tasty and with sufficient complexity to make you take notice. Enjoy!
About this wine
Saint Joseph is gaining in popularity and respect as a result of a new generation of winemakers with incredible commitment to elevating the quality of the wines from this appellation.
100% Syrah from a 6-hectare site with granite soil, about 75% in the mid-slope and 25% at the top. The vines average 35 years and the yield is 42 hl/ha. The handpicked grapes with yields of 40 hl/ha are de-stemmed and pneumatically pressed. Fermentation is over 28 days in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats with pumping over and punching down twice a day.
About the grape
Syrah is the sixth most planted grape worldwide. It thrives on steep slopes because of the dry climate and soil that enable deep root penetration. The grapes are small and dark-skinned high in acid and tannins.
2019 was yet another hot and dry growing season, albeit not excessively so. Rain in late August and early September was just what the winemaker ordered. Most of the region experienced good quantities of very healthy and ripe grapes. Corentin considers it a great vintage for whites and reds alike. He says the wines are more structured than 2018 and better for cellaring.
Suggested Glassware: Grassl 1855
The Pichon family is a growing force in the Northern Rhône region. Corentin, the eldest of the six children of Isabelle and Christophe, is a young, talented, 3rd generation winemaker. But this is every bit the family business as all of his 5 siblings are involved, along with Corentin's partner and mom and dad.
Based in Chavanay, the Pichons produce wines of elegance and finesse in a variety of appellations spanning more than 20 hectares. Chemical treatment of the mostly Syrah and Viognier vineyards is kept to a bare minimum. In addition to those from their own vines, they also purchase grapes for other wines.
VDLT has been visiting the Pichons for many years and is proud to include them as a foundation of the portfolio.
