E. Guigal

Crozes-Hermitage 2017

Crozes-Hermitage

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Crozes-Hermitage brings you into the Northern Rhône Valley, where the red wines have a profile unlike anywhere else in the world, an irresistible combination of warm flavors of red and black fruit, exotic spice notes, and certainly in the case of Crozes, with pleasure and approachability in youth.

It’s important to note that most of Crozes-Hermitage is produced from the plains to the south and east of Hermitage, and these wines tend to be straightforward. Guigal’s approach is to make a more serious Crozes that also has vigor, intensity and depth. In Guigal’s hands, Crozes becomes a wine that delivers quality and pleasure far beyond its price.

Vineyard

Guigal first produced a Crozes-Hermitage in 1999 after the acquisition of low-yielding, hillside vineyards. Since then they have continued to purchase similar quality vineyards, exclusively on hillsides, on soils that tend to limestone, clay silt and sandy gravel, with vine age averaging 35 years. The vineyards are grouped in the north of the appellation, specifically around the villages of Gervans, Mercurol, Larnage and Crozes-Hermitage itself.

Winemaking

This 100% Syrah was fermented in stainless steel tanks and was then aged for 24 months in 228 liter barrels exclusively produced at Guigal’s Chateau d’Ampuis cooperage.

Vintage

Following the classic 2016 vintage, 2017 in the Northern Rhône was a vintage of contrasts and challenges. After a very dry winter, spring was wet with hail and frost in some areas, reducing the crop considerably. Summer was characterized by periods of extreme drought, which continued through the fall, interrupted by some needed rain in early September. The fruit was clean and extremely concentrated, producing forward, fruity wines of balance, length and depth. A great result!

Tasting Note

Extremely dark and deep in color, the nose bursts with aromas of cherries and strawberries, balanced by the presence of wood. A tannic and large wine, with flavors of blackcurrant and hints of vanilla. Remarkable freshness with structured tannins from extended aging in wood.

Color

Red

Grape Varieties

Syrah

Appellation

Crozes-Hermitage

Alcohol

13.5%

Suggested Retail Price

$30

Reviews

"A notable effort and a solid value"

Wine Advocate - May 14, 2021 "Boasting scents of cracked pepper, black olives, road tar and blackberries, the 2017 Crozes Hermitage is a notable effort and a solid value. It's medium-bodied, yet on the sturdy side, with muscular tannins tamed by the firm's traditional, lengthy élevage. Finishing long, with hints of charred meat and licorice, this should drink well for 6-7 years, perhaps longer." 

"Smooth and energetic"

Vinous - May 6, 2020

"Bright violet. Spice-tinged blackberry, cherry, pungent flowers and a hint of succulent herbs on the perfumed nose. Smooth and energetic on the palate, offering juicy dark berry flavors that show very good depth and a late touch of spiciness. Finishes spicy, gently sweet and long, with a repeating blue fruit note and supple, even tannins.

"A total charmer"

Jeb Dunnuck - November 20, 2020

"A great example of the vintage, the 2017 Crozes-Hermitage is perfumed and expressive, with sunny notes of ripe red and black fruits, saddle leather, dried herbs, and hints of spiced meat. With medium-bodied richness, ripe tannins, and terrific overall balance, it's a total charmer." 

"Velvety-textured plum and blackberry"

Wine Spectator - January 14, 2021

"Offers up velvety-textured plum and blackberry purée flavors against a backdrop of black tea and alder notes. Subtle sanguine twinge on the slightly soft finish.." 

Trade Materials

Other Wines by this Producer

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Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc

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