Maison Les Alexandrins - Crozes-Hermitage Les Alexandrins 2017

 

“This very young wine merchant was founded through a partnership between the Perrin family (of Château de Beaucastel in Châteauneuf-du-Pape) and Nicolas Jaboulet (former director of the family-owned Paul Jaboulet et Fils). These two heavyweights from the southern and northern parts of the valley produce a small collection of wines from the north. The wines are selected from the barrels before malolactic fermentation takes place at the growers’ estates; aging is then completed at Perrin, near Orange. This is followed by blending. The style of the whites is precise, dry, and well-structured, offering a solid mid-range quality. To date, we prefer the vibrancy and density of the reds.”

Rich and smoky, with notes of bay leaf and tobacco amid flavors infused with plum and blackberry. Black tea and blood-like notes lead to a seductive finish. Best enjoyed from 2020 to 2027.

Deep ruby red. Aromas of smoky black berries, olives, and candied violets are enhanced by a spicy hint of pepper. The palate is supple and full-bodied, offering flavors of bitter cherry, blackcurrant, licorice, and crushed pepper. A fruity style, with dusty tannins that slowly give way to a spicy, lingering finish.

The 2017 Crozes Hermitage boasts a deep purple color and a palate bursting with aromas and flavors of blackberry and black cherry, incense, and pepper. It has good acidity, medium body, noticeable tannins, and great length, making it an exceptional, high-quality wine that can be cellared for 6–7 years.