The 1999 St.-Joseph Reflet's dense black/purple color is followed by an internationally-styled nose offering copious quantities of new oak, a Bordeaux-like mouthfeel, and notes of vanillin, black currants, and smoke. It is impressive for its ripeness, purity, and overall balance. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2010. Francois Villard is one of the brightest lights emerging from the northern Rhone. His 1999 reds experienced 80% destemming, a three-week cuvaison, two pigeages per day, and nearly 20 months in new oak with only one racking. They were bottled without filtration. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565