Collection: Northern Rhone

The Northern Rhône is the home of Syrah (known as Shiraz here in Australia) and can produce complex, elegant wines that are capable of aging for decades in the cellar. These examples tend to be spicier and more savoury than most Australian Shiraz. This region is also home to Viognier, known for producing aromatic and waxy, full-bodied whites and is often co-fermented with Syrah to provide aromatic lift.

LOCATION:
The Northern Rhône runs north-south along the Rhône River from Vienne to Valence, roughly 75km. This strip of the appellation is much more narrow than its southern counterpart which expands into vaster plains.

TERROIR:
The Northern Rhône experiences cooler winters than the Southern Rhône and slightly cooler summers, albeit, still quite warm. Most of the vineyards are on slopes on the west side of the river facing east, most of which are terraced and need to be maintained in the wake of heavy erosion. The Mistral wind is also a major issue here with vines being specifically staked so as not to be torn up by the winds. 

VARIETIES:
Syrah is the primary red grape here in the Northern Rhône, thriving in appellations such as Côte-Rotie, Hermitage, Saint-Joseph and Cornas. The primary white grape is Viognier with its home in Condrieu as well as Marsanne and Roussanne.
 
PRODUCERS:
Jean-Louis Chave, Guigal, Marc Sorrel, Bernard Faurie, Jamet, Delas, Château Grillet 
Domaine A. Clape, Domaine Levet, Domaine Bernard Gripa