Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage 2022

Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage is whole-bunch Syrah from organically farmed vines on the stony Terrasse des Chassis at Pont-de-l'Isère.

Crozes-Hermitage is the largest of the northern Rhône appellations and the most variable, but the Chassis terrace at Pont-de-l'Isère is its best-known ground, a bed of smooth rolled stones over ancient alluvial sand and gravel. Graillot's vines there average 40 to 50 years and are organically farmed. The fruit is loaded whole into lined concrete vats, crushed but not destemmed, for a pre-ferment maceration of two to five days, then fermented naturally. Ageing takes place in used François Frères barriques of one to seven years, bought from Burgundy estates, and since 2011 a growing proportion has gone into 20-hectolitre Stockinger ovals. The house style is deliberately old-fashioned, with the meaty, leathery character the French call animal sitting alongside the fruit, and a powdery, savoury finish.

Drink now with decanting, or cellar for five to eight years. Serve at 16-18°C with charcuterie, a beef and olive stew or roast lamb.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.