2020 Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
While the 2020 Crozes-Hermitage comes from an incredibly ripe, powerful vintage, it still comes across as classic Northern Rhône in both its aromatics and mouthfeel, which could be explained by the earlier harvesting as well as the 100% stem inclusion. Ripe blackberries, violets, ground pepper, blueberries, smoked meats, and subtle savory, earthy, foresty nuances all define the aromatics, and it's medium-bodied on the palate, with a layered mouthfeel, ripe yet perfectly integrated tannins, good acidity, and a great finish. This gorgeous Crozes-Hermitage is already hard to resist yet will evolve gracefully for another 10-15 years. Give bottles a quick 30-minute decant if drinking any time soon.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Saturated magenta. Displays expressive red and dark berry, smoked meat, olive and floral qualities on the spice-accented nose. Sappy and penetrating on the palate, offering gently sweet cherry-cola, blackberry and baking spice flavors that show fine detail and a mineral, back-end lift. Finishes very long and subtly chewy, with repeating smokiness, harmonious tannins and strong persistence.
Redolent of fresh red berries, the 2020 Crozes Hermitage may even come across as slightly confected to some tasters. The red raspberries and cherries roll across the medium-bodied palate framed by silky tannins, giving a positive overall impression. Drink this predominantly tank-aged wine (only 30% matured in barrels) on the young side.