Domaine Combier Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône Valley, France 2022

Domaine Combier is a pioneering family estate in the Northern Rhône Valley, established in 1936 when Camille Combier purchased property in Pont-de-l'Isère. The domaine became a trailblazer in organic viticulture when Maurice Combier converted all vineyards and orchards to organic farming in 1970—earning him the nickname "Maurice le Fou" (Crazy Maurice) in an era when such practices were virtually unheard of in France. Today, Laurent Combier leads the estate alongside his sons Julien and David, farming 25 hectares across the Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph appellations. The family's commitment to meticulous plot-by-plot work, lunar calendar observation, and natural balance has earned international recognition. Their flagship Clos des Grives has become one of the most celebrated wines of the Northern Rhône, while the estate's portfolio consistently demonstrates finesse, precision, and the ability to reveal the full potential of Crozes-Hermitage terroir.

• WINEMAKER: David, with father Laurent and brother Julien
• FARMING: Certified Organic (Ecocert) since 1970
• VARIETY: 100% Syrah
• TERROIR: The estate encompasses diverse terroirs across the Crozes-Hermitage appellation. In the south, vineyards are situated on the Plateau des Châssis in Pont-de-l'Isère, characterized by clay-limestone soils blanketed with rolled pebbles (galets roulés) that provide excellent heat retention and drainage. In the north, around the communes of Gervans and Serves-sur-Rhône, vines grow on loess hillsides and granite soils that impart minerality and freshness. This diversity of terroir allows for complex blending that balances power with elegance. The continental climate with Mediterranean influence provides warm, dry summers ideal for Syrah ripening. Vines average 30 years of age, with yields maintained around 42 hectoliters per hectare to ensure concentration and quality.
• VINIFICATION: Grapes are hand-harvested and transported in small crates to preserve fruit integrity. The entire crop undergoes 100% destemming before being placed in temperature-controlled concrete fermentation tanks. The winemaking approach emphasizes natural expression of the fruit through native yeast fermentation. Extraction is achieved through daily pigeage (punch-downs) and remontage (pump-overs) performed morning and evening. The total fermentation period extends approximately 25 days, allowing for gradual tannin extraction and optimal flavor development.
• AGING: The wine is aged for 12 months in recent oak barrels (fûts récents), allowing for gentle integration of wood tannins while preserving the fresh fruit character. The use of older barrels ensures that oak influence remains subtle, highlighting the purity of the Syrah fruit and terroir expression.
• TASTING NOTES: The 2022 vintage displays a deep red color with violet reflections. The nose reveals intense aromas of black cherry and crushed blackberry layered with violet florals, black pepper, and subtle spice notes. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with a velvety, structured texture. Dark blue fruits dominate the flavor profile, complemented by violet, red plum, and a distinctive peppery quality that adds freshness and vibrancy. The tannins are ripe yet refined, providing an elegant framework. The finish is long and harmonious with a pleasant mineral twist. This is a Crozes-Hermitage of remarkable balance—combining power with finesse, concentration with drinkability.
• FOOD PAIRINGS: Grilled or roasted red meats including ribeye steak, lamb chops, or venison. Game birds such as quail with grapes or duck breast. Braised dishes like rabbit stew (civet de lapin), beef bourguignon, or braised short ribs. Also excellent with charcuterie boards, aged cheeses, and mushroom-based dishes. The wine's spice and pepper notes make it a natural match for peppercorn-crusted meats or dishes with Provençal herbs.
• SCORES: 91 WINE SPECTATOR, 91 JAMES SUCKLING, 91 JEB DUNNUCK, 91 WINE ADVOCATE (Robert Parker)