2021 Crozes Hermitage Clos des Grives

The flagship 2021 Crozes-Hermitage Clos Des Grives comes from a single parcel in the southern part of the region and was raised all in barrels. It has another level of purity, with beautiful black raspberry fruit as well as spring flowers, minty herbs, pepper, and black tea-like aromas and flavors. It's medium-bodied and has juicy acidity, fine tannins, and a great finish. It too is perfect for drinking over the coming 7-8 years, although I wouldn't be surprised to see this evolve longer. Located in Crozes-Hermitage, unquestionably the most challenging appellation in 2021, Laurent Combier has nevertheless produced beautiful wines, with his Clos des Grives being an outstanding effort that’s well worth seeking out. His 2022s from barrel were all outstanding as well, with charming, up-front profiles. This estate is easily in the top handful of producers in Crozes, and the wines are worth your time and money.