Our tasting impressions
Just the second vintage for Tess. In some ways, it was the most complete red from our tasting. It has nice body. The flavors are zesty, deep and long. There's a real vibrance to the fruit, which also is quite fleshy. "Welcome Tess," you are a lovely and welcome addition to the Pichon lineup.
About this wine
This 100% Syrah new cuvée was introduced by Pichon in 2020. The vines were planted 55 years ago in soil composed of Leucogneiss (light colored metamorphic rock). The single, 1.5ha, South-facing slope is located in Tupin-et-Semons. The handpicked grapes with yields of 35 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. The wine is finished in oak barrels averaging 3 years of age. 3,900 bottles produced.
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.
About the vintage
2021 was extremely challenging for grape growing regions throughout Europe -Northern Rhône included. But very good wines were possible from diligent farmers and, lower yields produce more complex wines. Very mild and dry conditions at the start of the growing season prompted early bud break. So, when the spring frosts hit, there was signifiant loss of grapes. Frequent summer thunderstorms and generally high humidity posed further issues and limited sunshine made it difficult for the grapes to ripen. Ultimately, while generally lighter, the wines have good energy and balance.
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.
