2014 Combier Crozes-Hermitage Cuvee Laurent Organic, Northern Rhone

Combier Crozes Hermitage Cuvée Laurent is one of the great reference wines of Crozes Hermitage, capturing both the power and the perfume of Syrah grown on the stony terraces of the northern Rhône. Domaine Combier sits just north of Tain l’Hermitage, where the Rhône River has laid down layers of alluvial stones and gravel over clay, creating soils that give Syrah its trademark spice, depth and savoury complexity.

The Combier family has been farming these vineyards for generations, with Laurent Combier carrying the estate forward and committing early to organic viticulture. Long before it became fashionable, the vineyards were worked without synthetic chemicals, allowing the soils and vines to find their natural balance. Cuvée Laurent comes from some of the oldest vines on the estate, planted on the warmest, most expressive sites.

In the glass, the wine shows classic northern Rhône Syrah character, black cherry, blackberry and blueberry, lifted by violets, cracked pepper, dried herbs and a hint of olive tapenade. The palate is structured yet refined, with fine grained tannins, fresh acidity and a long savoury finish. It has depth and presence without feeling heavy or overworked.

This is a superb food wine. Grilled lamb, slow cooked beef, duck, venison or mushroom based dishes all bring out its spice and savoury edge. It is also a natural match for anything cooked over charcoal.

Combier Crozes Hermitage Cuvée Laurent is approachable young for its aromatic charm, but it will continue to develop over ten to fifteen years, gaining more earthy, leathery and complex notes with time. It is a benchmark expression of Crozes Hermitage and a powerful reminder of how good Syrah can be when grown and made with care.