Georges Vernay 2019 Terres d'Encre St-Joseph

93 pts 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.
- By Josh Raynolds on December 2022

Christine Vernay and her husband, Paul Amsellem, have moved into semi-retirement. The couple’s young daughter, Emma, is now in charge full-time at this venerable domaine. Emma Amsellem told me that her mother is a huge information resource, and while she may have backed away from day-to-day duties, she is still highly present as she eases further into her responsibilities. The estate is deservedly famous for its stunning Condreius, often the appellation’s very best, yet the red wines also showcase outstanding quality. The wines are slowly released to allow a bit of bottle age, and these 2019s and 2018s hardly betray their hot-vintage origins. I would cellar them with complete confidence.

JLL: ****
clear red robe; the nose is concealed, a tone of black fruit within, a smoked, lead pencil aspect. Its discreet ripeness serves it well. The palate engages well on the attack, gives a collection of red fruits, pockets of gras with a spinal, herbal second half. It’s a genuine, hand made St Jo, pleasing clarity on board, a note of ripeness, neat jam on the aftertaste. It drinks well now, more to come. 13°. 2036-38 June 2021

From Ribaudy on Chavanay (early 1980s Syrah), destemmed, 3 week vinification, pumping overs, 1-2 manual cap punchings, aged 1-4 year 228-litre oak casks 10-12 months, filtered, called Terres d`Encre since 2008, officially organic since 2020