Delas : François de Tournon 2020

Characteristics and tasting tips for the François de Tournon 2020 from Delas

Tasting

Color

Deep red in color, the wine reveals dark highlights.

Nose

The nose unveils a complex bouquet where black fruit aromas, particularly blackcurrant, intermingle with notes of sweet spices and subtle touches of leather.

Palate

On the palate, this wine entices with its unctuous and voluptuous texture. The tannins are silky and fine, bringing structure and elegance. The finish persists with a beautiful aromatic length.

Food and wine pairings

The François de Tournon 2020 pairs perfectly with game, grilled red meats and spicy dishes in sauce.

Service and storage

It is recommended to serve the François de Tournon 2020 at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for about one hour will allow the wine to fully express its aromatic complexity.

An elegant and structured Saint-Joseph from the Northern Rhône Valley

The estate

Founded in 1835 in Tournon-sur-Rhône, the Delas Frères House is today a key reference in the Northern Rhône Valley. Owned by the Roederer Collection group since 1993, the estate cultivates 30 hectares of vines spread across the Hermitage, Saint-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage appellations. Under the direction of Marc Hoellinger since 2023, Delas Frères perpetuates a philosophy centered on the expression of terroirs and parcel-based vinification. Significant investments made since 1996, notably with the opening in 2021 of a prestigious site in Tain-l'Hermitage, testify to the house's commitment to excellence and innovation while respecting traditional methods.

The vineyard

The François de Tournon draws its character from the Saint-Joseph terroirs located in the communes of Vion, Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, Mauves and Tournon. These plots benefit from soils composed of schist and granite, characteristic substrates of this central part of the appellation. The vines enjoy optimal south and south-east exposures, favoring ideal ripening of the Syrah. The altitude and orientation of the plots help preserve aromatic freshness while developing a beautiful concentration of fruit.

The vintage

The 2020 vintage in the Northern Rhône Valley is distinguished by its remarkable balance. After a mild and dry winter, spring passed without major incident despite a risk of early frost. The hot and sunny summer, without excessive temperatures, allowed for optimal ripening of the grapes. The cool nights characteristic of the continental climate preserved the natural acidity of the berries. Windy conditions at the end of summer limited the pressure from fungal diseases. The harvest took place in early September under ideal conditions, allowing for the collection of perfectly healthy and ripe grapes, endowed with exceptional freshness.

Winemaking and aging

The grapes for the François de Tournon 2020 were harvested manually at optimal maturity. After a two-day cold maceration, alcoholic fermentation took place in open concrete tanks at a controlled temperature between 28 and 30°C. Daily punching down and pumping over were carried out for about ten days, followed by a total vatting period of about twenty days. Malolactic fermentation was carried out in French oak barrels. Aging continued for 10 to 14 months in one- to three-wine oak barrels. A portion of the cuvée was aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and fruit characteristic of the vintage.

Grape variety

100% Syrah