E. Guigal Crôzes Hermitage Rouge 2021

Domaine E. Guigal is a family winery in the Rhône Valley, founded in 1946 by Étienne Guigal and running its own cooperage since 2003. This is a single-variety Syrah from the AOC Crozes-Hermitage, the largest appellation of the northern Rhône, made from vines that average thirty-five years old. Northern Rhône Syrah is the classic peppery, savoury expression of the grape, built on a continental climate and stony soils that ripen the fruit while preserving structure and lift. The wine spends eighteen months in French oak barrels, a longer ageing that resolves the tannins and adds smoke, spice and a light vanilla frame through the slow exchange of oxygen through the wood. The colour is a deep ruby. The nose is rich and lifted, with cherry and dark plum over cracked black pepper, smoke, liquorice and dried herbs. The palate is full and savoury, with firm tannins, fresh acidity and a long, peppery finish. Serve at 17 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. It suits grilled and roasted red meat, game and peppered dishes.