Crozes-Hermitage

One of the largest appellations in Northern Rhône, Crozes-Hermitage produces wines that are young, fruity and bold, with a spicy aroma and velvety tannins.

The appellation sits on a flattish riverbank and borders the more famous Ermitage appellation. Its soil mixture is unique: you can still taste a hint of the Ermitage granite deposits, but they are tempered with larger areas of alluvial soils containing sand and clay — which tend to be more nutrient-rich.

We find Crozes-Hermitage wines make great “starter-Rhônes.” Cheaper than Ermitage, and requiring less aging while still offering similar qualities, these wines are a great introduction to French Syrah.

Only made an official appellation recently, Crozes-Hermitage is a young appellation that grows young wines. A great choice if you want a fruitier Syrah, and don’t want to break the bank.