Domaine George Vernay Syrah St. Joseph Terres d'Encre 2019
(Northern Rhone, France) - [VM 93] [WA 91]
Regular price $66.00 Sale price $54.97 Save $11.03
About the Winery:
Founded by Francis Vernay in 1937, Domaine Georges Vernay is located in the heart of Condrieu. The efforts of Francis Vernay were instrumental in the creation of the official Condrieu appellation in 1940. Francis was succeeded by his son Georges, who played a key role in restricting the geographical boundaries of Condrieu. In 1996, Christine Vernay, Georges’s daughter, took over as winemaker and General Manager of the Estate. Recognized as one of the great winemakers in France, several of her wines have recently been awarded the coveted 100/100 in top wine publications. This wine is a nod to Christine’s influence and her daughter, Emma, who is now an integral part of her winemaking team. Terres d’Encre (translated to ‘Lands of ink’) is a wine worthy of its name.
About this Wine:
This wine comes from a 1.5 ha vineyard with 40 year old vines. The vineyard has exposed terraces with vines planted on granite soil in the municipality of Chavanay. Mechanization is impossible on the very uneven and steep vineyard, so the vines are cared for manually using organic farming techniques. Vines are pruned using the cordon de royat system. Grapes are harvested manually, then destemmed before vinification in temperaturecontrolled stainless steel vats for a fermentation period of 2 to 3 weeks, then aged for one year in the oak barrels. Wine is produced biodynamically with an organic certification.
Ratings & Reviews
93 Points - Vinous Media:
"Opaque ruby. Spice-accented dark berry aromas are complemented by suggestions of candied flowers, olive and smoky minerals. Done in a juicy style with fine definition and energy, showing a bright, spicy cut to its bitter cherry, cassis and fruitcake flavors. Delivers an attractive blend of power and energy, finishing smooth and long, with subtly gripping tannins and resonating spiciness. (Drink between 2025-2034)" - Josh Raynolds (Dec 2022)
91 Points - Wine Advocate:
"From a muscovite-based site above Chavanay, the 2019 Saint Joseph Terres d'Encre doesn't come across as being from a particularly hot vintage. Instead, it offers charming nuances of violets and cracked pepper set against a backdrop of just-ripe cherries. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, simultaneously tart and silky, it finishes long and mouthwatering." - Joe Czerwinski (Jan 2022)