I was impressed with the 1999 St.-Joseph Mairlant, a blend of equal parts Marsanne and Roussanne brought up in 30% new French oak. It reveals exotic, honeyed Roussanne characteristics (rose petals, caramel, nuts), some minerality, plenty of glycerin, fine depth, and a rich, chewy finish. It should be consumed during its first 1-3 years of life.
Francois Villard is one of the brightest lights emerging from the northern Rhone.
Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565