Delas : François de Tournon 2022

Characteristics and Tasting Notes for the "François de Tournon" 2022 Delas

Tasting

Colour
The colour reveals a deep ruby red hue, dark and brilliant.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet opens with intense notes of wild berries, blackcurrant and blackberry. Subtle hints of violet, pepper and liquorice intertwine with more complex nuances of bitter chocolate, smoke and graphite.

Palate
With a voluptuous, silky texture, this wine reveals a tannic structure that is both fine and serious. The palate unfolds concentrated aromas of black berries and plum, enhanced by a lovely mineral energy and sweet spices. The long, elegant finish stretches out with balsamic and mineral notes.

Food and wine pairing
This red wine pairs wonderfully with full-flavoured meats such as a spiced game stew, grilled dishes or game like wild boar and duck. It will also beautifully complement a board of mature cheeses, particularly hard cheeses or washed-rind varieties.

Service and storage
The "François de Tournon" 2022 deserves a few years in the cellar to reveal its full complexity. It can be enjoyed from 2025 and will continue to develop favourably until around 2035.

The elegance and minerality of a great French red wine

The estate
Founded in 1835, the house of Delas is a true institution of the Rhône Valley. Located in Tournon-sur-Rhône, it oversees a 30-hectare vineyard spread across the finest northern appellations. Part of the prestigious Roederer collection, the estate underwent a major revival starting in 1996, modernising its facilities while preserving the authentic expression of its terroirs. Now led by Marc Hoellinger, the house continues to shine through its excellence, offering cuvées that combine finesse, elegance and respect for winemaking traditions.

The vineyard
The grapes for this cuvée come from the Saint-Joseph appellation, more specifically from the historic terroirs of Vion, Saint-Jean de Muzols, Mauves and Tournon. The vines flourish on steep south and southeast-facing slopes, offering ideal sun exposure. The soils, made up of light schist and gneiss resting on a granite bedrock, give the berries remarkable concentration and a unique mineral identity.

The vintage
The year 2022 was marked by extreme weather conditions. Following a dry winter and a late budbreak, a warm spring accelerated the growing cycle. The particularly arid and scorching summer led to slight water stress, promoting exceptional concentration in the berries and resulting in an early harvest.

Winemaking and aging
Hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, the grapes for the "François de Tournon" 2022 are fully destemmed before a two-day cold maceration. Fermentation takes place in traditional open concrete vats, punctuated by daily punching down and pumping over. After malolactic fermentation, the wine is aged for 10 to 14 months in oak barrels one to three years old. A small portion of the blend is kept in vats to preserve the brightness and freshness of the fruit.

Grape variety
100% Syrah.