Tasting Note (by Janet Dorozynski) – While I am typically sceptical of wines that appear to be kitchen sink blends, the Joy Hill Paysage 2025 is a compelling example of how thoughtful blending can create harmony through diversity. An eclectic blend of chardonnay (35%), melon de Bourgogne (22%), gamay (18%), riesling (17%), grüner veltliner (7%) and pinot blanc (1%), the wine combines direct-pressed white varieties with carbonically macerated gamay to add aromatic lift and subtle complexity. All are fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged for five months in concrete tanks. The nose is bright and inviting, with aromas of wildflowers, Meyer lemon and green apple, that are layered with hints of fresh herbs and wet stone. The palate is energetic yet finely textured, balancing crisp acidity with a gentle creaminess derived from time in concrete. Citrus and orchard fruit flavours mingle with delicate floral notes, while the gamay contributes a subtle hint of red-fruit freshness that elevates the aromatic profile without distracting from the wine’s overall precision. Refreshing yet substantial, this is a distinctive and confident expression of Québec’s emerging cool-climate wine culture.

Backgrounder: – The project was established by entrepreneurs Justine Thérien and Julien Niquet, whose complementary careers in wine, brewing, and business development inspired their shared ambition to create a vineyard. Their vision became reality with 50-hectare Joy Hill property perched 300 metres above sea level that sits at the northern edge of the Appalachian range in southern Quebec very near the U.S. border. The mineral rich soils warm quickly in the spring and provide excellent natural drainage, creating ideal conditions for vine growing. The estate planted 37,000 vinifera vines between 2017 and 2019, that were selected for their aromatic complexity, potential to thrive in the region and varieties that Thérien and Niquet enjoyed drinking and inspired them on a personal level. Sustainability is central to the vineyard’s philosophy. The vineyard features a mix of classic French and Austrian grape varieties, chosen for their quality, and site suitability. Red wines are produced using carbonic or semi-carbonic maceration, while most white wines are made through direct pressing. Depending on the desired style and expression of the wine, aging takes place in concrete, stainless steel or traditional French demi-muids (600 litre oak barrels).