François Villard "Reflet" Rouge, Rhône Valley, France 2019

FROM BOWLER WINE:

THE WINE: 100% Syrah. 14 days maceration in open wood and stainless steel tank. Matured 18 months. 20% in new oak barrels and 80% in old oak barrels (2 to 4 years old). The signature of the winemaker, on a Saint Joseph that is too well made. Very flattering nose with a mix of black (blackberry) and red fruits. A beautiful length, a subtle balance. Pairs well with sautéed rabbit, deer, and cheeses. This wine can be kept for 15 years if stored in ideal conditions.

THE PRODUCER: Francois Villard was not born into wine; he started out his career as a chef. He grew up between Vienne and Grenoble, in the French countryside. He made his first Condrieu in 1991, a whopping 400 bottles. Today, makes wine from 64 hectares, of which he owns 40 hectares, purchasing fruit from the balance. He makes wine from Côte-Rôtie down to Saint Peray, and a little of everything between: four Condrieu, five Saint-Joseph (red and white), three Crozes-Hermitage, a Cornas, and four Vin de France (Marsanne-Roussanne, Viognier, and two Syrah).