The Crozes Hermitage region is the engine room of the Northern Rhone. In the Southern Rhone it is all about blends (Up to 19 different varieties), whilst in the North it is all about Syrah
The Crozes Hermitage is dominated by large winemaking cooperatives; however Cave de Clairmont is one of the smaller ones. Founded in 1972, it was the dream of three families who wished to share their love of vineyards and wine. The business has now grown to embrace seven families and over 125 hectares of vineyards.
The 2009 vintage was a classic vintage in the Northern Rhone and you can see this in the wine. The cooler climate of Northern Rhone produces a more medium bodied wine, without the richness and fleshiness that you get from warmer climates like the Barossa or McLaren Vale. Instead you get these lovely spicy and peppery characteristics. In fact this cooler climate style of Shiraz is now all the rage in Australia. These are wines you want to drink, not just taste.
This wine is made from 30 year old vines and 100% Syrah. It has a deep maroon colour and an engaging nose that is almost floral and perfumed. The palate is both graceful and harmonious showing fine tannins with generous fresh strawberry fruits alongside white pepper and black tea. A great example of this region and style and a wine that can be enjoyed again and again.