Crozes Hermitage AOP – Christelle Betton – Caprice – red

Description

Crozes-Hermitage AOP – Caprice by Christelle Betton is a 100% Syrah red cuvée, made from grapes grown on terroirs of the Crozes-Hermitage appellation, in the heart of the northern Rhône Valley. The vines, planted on clay-granite terroirs, enjoy a south-easterly exposure, allowing optimal ripening of the grapes while retaining lovely freshness and a pure expression of the fruit.

The vines are farmed sustainably, with particular attention to yield management and vine health. The grapes are picked at optimal ripeness, exclusively by hand, to guarantee the quality of the harvest. In the cellar, vinification respects the fruit and the terroir: the grapes are partially destemmed and ferment in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature, to preserve aromatic freshness and complexity. Maceration is fairly short to allow a gentle extraction of the tannins, and the wine is aged in stainless steel tanks to maintain the purity of the fruit.

The result is a red wine with a deep garnet colour, brilliant and luminous. The nose is highly intense, revealing aromas of ripe black fruit (blackcurrant, blackberry), accompanied by floral touches of violet, as well as spicy notes of white pepper, cocoa and a subtle touch of garrigue. On the palate, the attack is supple, and the wine develops a round, generous texture. The tannins are fine and elegant, and the balance between rich fruit and freshness is perfect. The finish is long and harmonious, marked by lovely minerality and lingering spicy flavours.

This Crozes-Hermitage – Caprice lends itself to a wide range of food pairings. It goes wonderfully with grilled meats, meat in sauce, roasts or a duck breast. It also pairs well with mature cheeses such as Saint-Nectaire or Cantal. It can be enjoyed now, after airing, but also has an ageing potential of 5 to 7 years, during which its aromas will become even more refined.

Grape variety: 100% Syrah
Terroir: Clay-granite soils, south-east-facing
Viticulture: Sustainable, hand harvesting
Vinification: Partial destemming, fermentation in stainless steel tanks
Ageing: Stainless steel tanks
Serving temperature: 16–18 °C
Ageing potential: 5 to 7 years

A harmonious and expressive Crozes-Hermitage that appeals with its freshness and balance, while offering lovely complexity on the nose and a pleasant length on the palate.