J. Boutin 'Les Hauts Granites' - Crozes-Hermitage

 2021

100% Syrah

Stephane Vadeau made a name for himself as the winemaker for Clos Bellane before starting his own much smaller project under the J.Boutin label. The winery is named after his mother and he works some of the smallest and finest parcels of land in the Northern Rhone. These 50-60 year old vines convey the nobility of their terroir very clearly. All of the grapes are hand harvested, gently pressed, sometimes with whole clusters depending on the vintage- and are unfined and unfiltered. Aging is completed in a combination of stainless steel and large oak barrels. Expect to find a perfumed nose, with notes of exotic spices, dark berries, and a hint of smoky minerality. The tannins are medium in body and the mouth is richly textured with notes of cherry compote, violets and more spices. Pair with steak au poivre.