Terroir:
Domaine Alain Graillot is located in the Crozes-Hermitage appellation of the Northern Rhône Valley. The vineyards are situated on the flat, rocky lands between the Isère and Rhône rivers, primarily in the villages of Les Chassis and Les Sept Chemins. The soils here are a mix of gravel and alluvial deposits, contributing to the complexity and minerality of the wines produced.
Viticulture:
The estate practices organic viticulture, with a focus on maintaining the health of the vines and the surrounding ecosystem. The vines are over 30 years old, and the grapes are hand-harvested from low-yielding vineyards to ensure the highest quality.
Winemaking:
The winemaking process at Domaine Alain Graillot is traditional and meticulous. The red Crozes-Hermitage is made from 100% Syrah grapes, which are fermented with indigenous yeasts in concrete vats. The grapes are not destemmed, undergoing whole-cluster fermentation to enhance complexity and structure. The wine is then aged in a combination of new and used French oak barrels for about a year before bottling.
Tasting Notes:
This Crozes-Hermitage is renowned for its deep, rich character. It showcases aromas of dark berries, black raspberries, cassis, and violets, with underlying notes of pepper, grilled meats, and dark soil. On the palate, it is full-bodied and elegant, with fine-grained tannins and a long, complex finish. The wine is both powerful and refined, reflecting the unique terroir of the Northern Rhône.