François Villard : Jouvet 2019

Tasting characteristics and tips for the Jouvet 2019 by François Villard

Tasting

Color

The color displays a deep, intense garnet-red hue.

Nose

The nose reveals fine aromatic complexity, with notes of concentrated dark fruits such as blackberry and blueberry, complemented by hints of plum. The bouquet also shows pronounced minerality evoking granite, chalk and graphite. Spicy aromas of black pepper and licorice mingle with subtle floral notes of lilac and violet. Earthy, roasted touches reminiscent of tar and roasted herbs complete this aromatic palette.

Palate

The attack is rich and juicy, with well-defined red and dark fruits: blackcurrant, blackberry and blueberry dominate the palate. The texture is velvety despite the intensity, while bright, well-balanced acidity brings energy to the wine. Fine, well-integrated tannins show a delicate graininess characteristic of the finest wines of the appellation. The finish lingers on mineral, spicy and fruity flavors, with persistent notes of melted licorice and wet stone.

Food and wine pairing

This wine pairs perfectly with grilled red meats such as lamb or rib steak. It also matches very well with game such as venison or duck, as well as winter stews like boeuf bourguignon. Fans of plant-based cuisine will appreciate pairings with roasted mushrooms, sautéed eggplant or root-vegetable gratins. A mushroom risotto also makes a harmonious match.

Serving and cellaring

Cornas Jouvet 2019 has a cellaring potential of at least 15 years and can be enjoyed until around 2040. The optimal drinking window is between 2025 and 2040.

An elegant, mineral Cornas from the Rhône Valley

The estate

Founded in 1989, Domaine François Villard now spans 40 hectares of estate-owned vineyards, complemented by the purchase of grapes from about 25 additional hectares. Located in Saint-Michel-sur-Rhône in the Northern Rhône Valley, the estate is run by François Villard, a former chef who switched to viticulture after training in viticulture and oenology in Mâcon. Certified organic since 2022, the estate stands out for its stylistic evolution toward elegance and freshness, favoring balance and the expression of terroir over extreme concentration.

The vineyard

Cornas Jouvet comes from 15-year-old vines planted on decomposed quartzitic granite soils, typical of the Cornas appellation. The vineyard benefits from an east to south exposure, promoting optimal sunlight. With yields of 42 hectoliters per hectare and a planting density of 8,000 vines per hectare, this granitic terroir allows for remarkable mineral expression.

The vintage

The 2019 vintage benefited from favorable climatic conditions, allowing for a gradual, balanced ripening of the grapes.

Winemaking and aging

Cornas Jouvet 2019 is vinified 100% as whole clusters, a deliberate choice that brings aromatic freshness and refined tannins. Fermentation takes place over ten days in open stainless-steel tanks, favoring a measured extraction. Aging lasts 18 months in older barrels five to seven years old, avoiding the influence of new oak to preserve the expression of the granitic terroir. Bottling took place in March 2021.

Grape variety

100% syrah