Producer: Domaine des Combat

Region: Mercurol, Crozes-Hermitage, Rhone Valley

Blend: 100% Syrah

Serve: 18-20°  |  With: Rich Stews, Beef Ragu

Situated east of the village of Crozes-Hermitage in northern Rhone, Domaine des Combat practices natural farming with minimal human intervention. Vines are trained at a great height of 2 metres to receive the maximum amount of daylight. De-budding and stripping of the stumps takes place prior to harvest to ensure the best aeration and to allow the grapes to achieve maximum maturity.

Vinification occurs at low temperatures to preserve fruit and freshness, rising towards the end to optimize extraction and tannins. The resultant wines are a vivid ruby red, presenting a nose of typical wild black fruits and a pronounced floral (violet) note. The palate is a concentrated blend of ripe black cherry, plum and wild blackberries with hints of white pepper, black olives and chocolate spices. The finish is elegant, well-balanced and moreish as a result of the wine's soft tannins and overall complexity. Syrah's No.1 fan said this: 'STUNNING!'