2024 Equis Equinoxe Crozes-Hermitage Rouge, Northern Rhone

The 2024 Crozes-Hermitage Equinoxe was vinified from fully destemmed grapes, opening with subtle orange blossom, violets and earthy shadings. Touching the medium-bodied palate with moderate flavor concentration wrapped around gentle tannins, the 2024 can be enjoyed right away.

89 points, Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous

From the northern reaches of the Rhône, where granite slopes and the mistral shape everything, this is Syrah with both pedigree and polish. Equis is the passion project of winemaker Louis Barruol of Château de Saint Cosme, working in collaboration with Rhône legend Michel Chapoutier, a pairing that brings together deep regional knowledge and a relentless focus on site expression.

Crozes-Hermitage can sometimes lean rustic, but here it is all about refinement without losing its soul. Dark cherry and blackberry roll through first, followed by a lift of violet and cracked pepper that immediately places it in the northern Rhône. There is a savoury undercurrent too, a hint of olive tapenade and smoked meat that adds complexity without overwhelming the fruit.

The texture is supple but structured, with fine tannins giving shape and length. It feels generous yet controlled, finishing with a gentle spice and a whisper of earth that keeps drawing you back. There is a real sense of balance here, nothing pushed too far, everything working together.

Perfect with slow cooked lamb shoulder, chargrilled duck breast with a cherry glaze, or even a rustic lentil and sausage dish where the savoury notes in the wine really come alive. It also handles a simple steak beautifully, especially when cooked over charcoal.

Give it a few years in the cellar and it will open further, developing more game, leather and spice while retaining that core of dark fruit. Five to eight years will see it at a lovely place, though it is already drinking with plenty of charm.