France — wine

Crozes-Hermitage AOC

The largest Northern Rhône appellation, surrounding the famed Hermitage hill. Syrah dominates reds on granite soils (north) and alluvial clay-limestone plains (south); Marsanne and Roussanne produce characterful whites. Quality varies enormously but the granite-zone wines from producers like Alain Graillot approach Hermitage quality. The appellation has seen a wave of natural wine producers raising the quality ceiling significantly.

Year Rating Notes
2024 Northern Rhône conditions excellent; Syrah showing classic violet and olive complexity.
2023 Benchmark Crozes vintage; Graillot conditions outstanding.
2022 Crozes-Hermitage 2022: Northern Rhône granite plateau; Syrah shows floral and mineral character
2021 Crozes-Hermitage 2021: Northern Rhône granite plateau; Syrah shows floral and mineral character
2020 Crozes-Hermitage 2020: Northern Rhône granite plateau; Syrah shows floral and mineral character
2019 Crozes-Hermitage 2019: Northern Rhône granite plateau; Syrah shows floral and mineral character
2018 Crozes-Hermitage 2018: Northern Rhône granite plateau; Syrah shows floral and mineral character