Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 'Les Pends' Domaine des Entrefaux 2023

Domaine des Entrefaux presents Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 'Les Pends,' a Syrah endowed with an irresistible spiciness reminiscent of the grape variety and the terroir. Since the 1990s, this estate has been managed by François, the fifth viticultural generation of the Tardy family, supported by his wife Anne. The couple has from the beginning pursued sustainable viticulture, culminating in organic certification in 2013. In addition, François and Anne adopt biodynamic practices, and in the winery, winemaking operations are completely respectful of the unique expression of the terroir.

Crozes-Hermitage Domaine des Entrefaux Rouge is made from only Syrah grapes grown on the southern slope of the hill of Les Pends de Mercurol, hence the label's name. The vineyard, conducted under a certified organic system, covers 2.2 hectares and was planted over 13 years ago on clay-limestone-rich soils. After manual harvesting, destemming and mashing operations are carried out, followed by spontaneous alcoholic fermentation in wooden barrels conducted exclusively by indigenous yeasts, for a total duration of 4 weeks. The ensuing aging period lasts for one year and takes place in wooden barrels of various sizes on the fine lees.

To the eye, Domaine des Entrefaux's Crozes-Hermitage Rouge expresses a deep ruby red color. The aromatic range opens on aromas of ripe red fruits, plum and balsamic herbs, soon joined by vivid notes of sweet spices and graphite. The palate is soft and enveloping, with well-integrated tannins, brilliant freshness and a pleasant mineral streak on the finish. This is an intense but well-balanced Crozes-Hermitage, to be paired with various meat preparations or aged cheeses.