Delas Freres Saint-Joseph Francois De Tournons 2022

The ancient vineyards of Saint-Joseph, planted almost exclusively with Syrah, cover more than 600 acres on the right bank of the Rhne river. The vineyard stretches from Chavanay in the north, to Guilherand in the south it covers 23 “communes” in the Ardche region, and three in the Loire. The grapes are planted in terraces on the rocky granite hillsides, where Delas selects only the best grapes for this cuve. The “Francois de Tournon” is a blend of grapes from the terroirs of Vion, Saint-Jean de Muzols, Mauves and Tournon.

Exposure is south and south-east and the soils consist of light schist and gneiss over a granite bedrock. The climate is moderately continental, with hot and dry summers, and normal rainfall the rest of the year. The wine was reputed in the 16th century for its delicacy, and was poured at the table of the kings of France. It was the Jesuits (a monk community) of Tournon who gave the area its current name, in the 17th century. Between 1956 and 1969, all the vineyards from this area which used to be named Ctes du Rhne were regrouped and established under the appellation Saint-Joseph.

The color is a deep, dark ruby red with a garnet reflection. The nose is clearly marked by delicate aromas of cassis and spices. On the palate, this cuve shows a smooth and voluptuous texture that masks a good tannic structure, fine and silky. this wine has great potential for aging.