Alain Graillot, Crozes Hermitage Rouge, Rhône Valley, France, 2020

Overview of the Brand 
Northern Rhône native, Alain Graillot, is recognized for his passion of Syrah. Prior to starting his own domaine, Alain worked in Burgundy, where he received guidance from the reputable Jacques Seysses of Domaine Dujac. In 1985, Alain founded Domaine Alain Graillot just outside the village of Pont de l’Isère, about 6 km south of Tain-l’Hermitage. He is now considered one of the most highly sought-after producers in the Northern Rhône due to his exuberant, robust and impeccably made Syrah-based wines. The family has a total of 22 ha under vine, with only 3 ha planted to white grapes.

Organic. 

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Grape / Blend
100% Syrah

Origin
Rhône Valley, France

Tasting Notes
With organically farmed vines that are harvested by hand, not much has changed in the vineyards of Alain Graillot. This whole-cluster fermented 100% Syrah has all the markers of Crozes-Hermitage: Herbs, earth and cherries show the riper side of the vintage, while the region’s typical black olives, white pepper and spices play a secondary role. It’s super drinkable now yet capable of aging for more than a decade.

92 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
I tasted three different lots of the 2020 Crozes Hermitage, picked at very different ripeness levels. One, picked on August 23 at just 11.7 degrees of potential alcohol, was light-bodied, with paper-like tannins but charming, cherry-like fruit. Another, picked September 8–10 at 13.8–13.9 degrees, shows more weight, velvety richness and darker-fruit flavors. The bulk was picked somewhere in between, with lively purple raspberry fruit, a crisp, medium-bodied feel on the palate and a bright, vibrant finish.

Product Size: 750ml