La Pierre Noire AOC 2019

Wine Description for La Pierre Noire AOC 2019 by Saint Jean Du Barroux

Colour & Appearance

Luminous garnet red with elegant transparency that evokes the wine’s mineral origins.

Nose

The 2019 presents itself with surprising nobility and coolness. Mineral notes of iron ore and graphite meet dark fruit: sloe berries, blackberries, crisp plums and ripe cherries. These are joined by black olives and pronounced herbaceousness. This is perhaps the most elegant vintage of the line – refined and possessing a cool precision rarely found in this southern appellation.

Palate

On the palate, the true nature of this wine reveals itself: yes, there is the depth and body of mature Southern Rhône fruit, but overlaying this is a cool, mineral vein that defines the wine. Iron, graphite, fermented cardamom and dark, dry tobacco dominate. The firm tannins and clear acidity lend the wine structure and tension. The name is the programme: this is indeed a wine as if hewn from black stone.

Finish

Long, mineral and of impressive precision. The stony notes linger, accompanied by dark fruit and fine tannins.

Terroir & Origin

The name La Pierre Noire – „The Black Stone“ – refers to the extraordinary terroir of black rock in the Southern Rhône. This geological peculiarity fundamentally shapes the wine’s character.

Grape Variety & Vinification

A blend of approximately 85% Grenache and 15% Syrah. Extremely low yields of just 15 hl/ha guarantee maximum concentration. Spontaneous fermentation with stems and stalks over 15 days, ageing in concrete, enamel tanks and used barrels. This artisanal approach preserves mineral freshness.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Braised beef, lamb shoulder with Provençal herbs, game dishes, aged Comté or Pecorino.

Special Features

Philippe Gimel attributes this wine with ageing potential of 20 years. An extraordinary Southern Rhône that combines power with finesse.