This large appellation in Northern Rhone consists of vineyards planted on the eastern slopes of the river and grown deep in warm pebbly soils. The majority of wines are red and predominately Syrah while there is a small percentage of white wine made from Marsanne and Rousanne. Given the relatively unknown status of these wines, they are remarkable values representing the terroir of the Northern Rhone.

The soils for Guigal’s 100% Syrah of Crozes-Hermitage are composed of limestone, clay and sandy gravel. The average age of these vineyards are 35 years of age. This wine is aged for 18 months in oak barrels. The dark garnet color reveals the quality and purity of flavor in this wine. This bottling flaunts a bouquet of field flowers, red orchard fruits and anise. The dark fruit in this wine oozes from the glass. Inside is a generous offering of framboise intermixed with dark cocoa and espresso. The core has an essence of delicate rocky minerality and freshness indicating it’s origin and sense of place. Philippe Guigal is a master craftsman that over delivers with every wine in his portfolio.

By W Peter Hoyne