Region: Crozes-Hermitage, Rhone, France 

Vintage: 2020

Composition: 100% Syrah

History: Crozes-Hermitage is Northern Rhone’s largest appellation, surrounding the steep granite faces of Hermitage to its north and south. Here the rolling vineyards are less extreme and its soils, rich in clay-limestone and alluvial matter, produce Syrahs that range from fruity and charming to lush and seductive. The Syrahs of Crozes-Hermitage have more mass than those from St. Joseph but are less intense than those from Hermitage. While many are intended for early consumption, some of the best Syrahs from Crozes-Hermitage will age beautifully for 5-10 years. Up to 15% of white grapes may theoretically be added to red Crozes at the time of fermentation but whether this is done or not depends on the decision of the winemaker. The best Crozes-Hermitage Syrahs will be fleshy with black fruit (currant, blackberry and black cherry) and bay leaf qualities, notes of tar and stone, and a well-concentrated finish of smooth tannins. About a tenth of the wine produced in Crozes-Hermitage is white, primarily composed of Marsanne supplemented by smaller amounts of Roussanne.

Tasting Notes:

Beautiful deep-purple color. This wine reveals a particularly seductive nose, with a subtle mix of aromas of small red fruit. On the palate, it opens up with a frank attack before revealing itself with finesse and balance and a beautiful freshness and round, velvety tannins, perfectly softened by aging in wooden vats. Very elegant, it is already very pleasant to drink. This wine will go wonderfully with grilled meats.