Domaine Yves Cuilleron Crozes-Hermitage ‘Labaya’ Syrah 2020

Domaine Yves Cuilleron Crozes-Hermitage ‘Labaya’ Syrah is a bold and expressive red wine from the Crozes-Hermitage appellation in the Northern Rhône region of France. Made from 100% Syrah, this wine showcases the power and elegance typical of the region, with a focus on ripe fruit and a distinctive minerality. On the nose, it reveals intense aromas of blackberries, blueberries, and black cherries, intertwined with notes of black pepper, smoked meat, and violets. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with velvety tannins, offering layers of dark fruit, spices, and a subtle earthiness. The finish is long, with lingering notes of pepper, graphite, and a touch of oak.

Wine Details:

Type: Red Wine
Style: Medium to Full-bodied, Bold Red
Grape Varietal: Syrah
Taste Like: Like Shiraz, but with more savory notes of black pepper, smoked meat, and a leaner structure, typical of Northern Rhône Syrah.
Alcohol Percentage: 13.5%
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Appellation: Crozes-Hermitage AOC
Region: Northern Rhône
Region Location: Southeastern France
Country: France
Terroir: The vineyards are planted on gravelly, sandy soils with granite bedrock, which impart a distinct minerality to the wine. The temperate climate of Crozes-Hermitage allows for slow ripening, resulting in balanced acidity and concentrated flavors.
Aging: Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, adding subtle layers of spice, vanilla, and smoke without overpowering the natural fruit and spice character of the Syrah.
Farming: Domaine Yves Cuilleron practices sustainable viticulture, ensuring respect for the environment while producing wines that authentically express the terroir.
Serving Temperature:
16-18°C – Serve slightly below room temperature to enhance the wine’s rich fruit, savory notes, and structured tannins.

Winery:
Domaine Yves Cuilleron is one of the most respected producers in the Northern Rhône region, known for crafting wines that are both traditional and modern in style. The estate focuses on minimal intervention in the cellar and sustainable vineyard practices, ensuring that the wines truly reflect their terroir. Labaya is a special cuvée from their Crozes-Hermitage vineyards, showcasing the depth and complexity of Syrah from this iconic appellation.

Dishes this wine pairs with:

Grilled or Roasted Meats: Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, beef steaks, or pork tenderloin.
Duck Confit: Complements the richness of duck with its bold fruit and smoky character.
Beef Bourguignon: Ideal with classic French stews, balancing the wine’s bold tannins and dark fruit.
Roast Game: Matches well with roast venison or wild boar, enhancing the wine’s earthy and peppery notes.
Barbecue: Works wonderfully with smoked meats or barbecue dishes, accentuating the wine’s smoky and peppery qualities.
Cheeses this wine pairs with:

Brie de Meaux (France): The creamy texture and mild flavor of Brie complement the wine’s bold fruit and tannin structure.
Comté (France): The nutty, savory flavors of Comté enhance the wine’s depth and minerality.
Saint-Nectaire (France): The earthy, semi-soft texture of Saint-Nectaire pairs well with the wine’s complexity and dark fruit.
Manchego (Spain): A firm, nutty cheese that pairs nicely with the wine’s spicy and mineral-driven profile.
Mimolette (France): The sharp, aged flavor of Mimolette enhances the wine’s intense fruit and savory notes.