Tasting Notes
Screwcap. This white Crozes-Hermitage is a deliciously silky yet vibrant blend of 80% Marsanne and 20% Roussanne, whole-bunch pressed and naturally fermented in a mix of one-year-old 600-liter demi-muids and stainless steel. The fruit comes from a 2.7-hectare plot on the deep alluvial soils of Pont-de-l’Isère, in the southern sector of the Crozes-Hermitage appellation. The nature of the soils and low yields from the old vines (now reaching 40 years of age) means that Maxime compensates for the richness of fruit (in particular from the Marsanne) by arresting the malo to maintain freshness. He bottles under screwcap for the same reason.
It's a beautifully textured release with a pithy, grapefruit personality balanced by wonderfully vibrant acidity and some fine phenolic grip carrying the length of the palate. Undoubtedly one of the best examples we have seen of this wine. It’s both more textural and complex, yet somehow more punchy, racy and moreish. Great work Max! - Importer Note
There are few names as revered as Alain Graillot.
In 1985, the now legendary Graillot returned to his home in Crozes Hermitage, after working with the venerable Jacques Seysses at Domaine Dujac. With each passing year, his devotion to crafting his hauntingly delicious Syrah has been rewarded with an ever-growing, and highly dedicated, following around the world.
Recently, Domaine Alain Graillot was given two Etoiles (stars), making it the highest rated Crozes domaine in France's leading wine guide, Revue du Vin de France. This confirms the great work being done by Alain's sons, Maxime and Antoine, who have been in charge of the Domaine since 2008.
All of the work in the vineyards is carried out by hand, as it ever was. Gnarled, yet manicured vines reach up from a sea of smooth, rolled stones, over ancient alluvial deposits. In the winery, Maxime continues the hands-off approach with whole-cluster fermentation using natural yeasts, and no additions apart from a minimal use of sulphur.
The domaine’s status as one of the top domaines in all of France is without question and the whole lineup are must-haves for any serious Northern Rhone fan.
| Product Type | Wine White Viognier Marsanne Roussanne & Friends |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Country | France |
| Region | Northern Rhone |
| Sub Region | Crozes Hermitage |
| Winemaking Practices | Minimal Intervention |
| Vineyard Practices | Organic/Biodynamic |