François Villard : Reflet 2017

Tasted blind. Furry tannins and fresh acidity vie for attention on the palate, while the black fruit is fairly straightforward and simple, with a reasonably short finish. (RH)

The aromatics are fresh, with nuances of pepper and spice. The fruit remains nicely juicy, with a hint of charcoal at the back of the nose. The oak is well-integrated. The palate is ample, with a fine sap of tannin that tightens it without hardness. This Saint-Joseph reflects the terroir’s measured rigor and promises good aging potential.

The 2017 Saint Joseph Reflet included 80% whole clusters, so there's an herbal, stemmy component that may take a year or two to integrate. For now, it stands a bit apart from the dark, plummy fruit, yet the wine is harmonious on the palate, being full-bodied, concentrated, velvety and long on the finish.