La Joie
2019
Vintage
2019 represents a classically balanced season from our Sonoma County vineyards, and the resulting wines show a stunning combination of generous fruit with ample structure, that will yield decades of pleasure. A vintage marked from the outset by plentiful winter rainfall, 2019 began with vineyard soils holding abundant moisture & well-prepared for the upcoming growing season. Budbreak occurred throughout early to mid-April, and the spring & summer months proceeded with above average warmth.
Notes
2019 La Joie shows a rich core of black-violet concentration, ringed with a very thin, youthful looking violet rim. The fruit aromatics are fresh and vibrant, with black currant & black plum compote, joined by elements of fresh cut greenery, subtle pine resin, iodine, and roasted baking spices. The palate illustrates the power and suppleness of the 2019 vintage, lending a purity and sweetness to each of the flavors described. The texture is balanced by tannins evocative of dark baking cocoa and robust acidity, both of which lead to a long, persistent finish.
Composition
84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot
A blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2019 La Joie is deep garnet-purple in color. It has a wonderfully flashy and flamboyant nose of blackcurrant cordial, redcurrant jelly, plum preserves, and potpourri with hints of chocolate mint, tilled soil, chalk dust, and forest floor. The medium to full-bodied palate is very taut and muscular with tons of bright, crunchy black fruits and wonderful tension, finishing with tons of earthy nuances. 2,500 cases were made.
The purity of fruit with currants, spices and flowers is very impressive, as is the long, creamy texture. Full-bodied with medium, round tannins and a fresh finish. Oyster and iodine notes come through. Excellent. Drink after 2026.
The 2019 La Joie is an elegant expression that offers power, freshness and expressive, floral character. A blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, it has a deep ruby color and opens slowly from black cherries and blueberries to accents of violets, ground coffee and licorice. The full-bodied palate has generous, grainy tannins, detailed, perfumed flavors and bright acidity, finishing with an alluring iron character. 2,500 cases were made.