Domaine Combier - Cap Nord Crozes-Hermitage 2024 Magnum
In the northern part of Crozes-Hermitage, the steep slopes overlooking the Rhône give rise to Syrahs whose personality contrasts with that of wines from the southern terraces of the appellation. It is on these terroirs that Domaine Combier produces Cap Nord, a parcel cuvée that reveals a particularly precise and structured expression of the grape variety. Located in Pont-de-l'Isère, the Combier family distinguished itself as early as 1969 by its commitment to organic farming, then little widespread in the Rhône valley. Laurent Combier, now accompanied by his sons Julien and David, continues this approach by prioritizing a deep knowledge of the terroirs and winemaking respectful of their identity. Cap Nord comes from the sectors of Serves-sur-Rhône and Gervans, where the slopes benefit from a particularly favorable southwest exposure. The loess soils, notably derived from the decomposition of granite, contribute to the finesse of the structure and the characteristic freshness of this cuvée. This unique origin gives Cap Nord an elegant personality, in which the depth of the fruit is accompanied by remarkable aromatic precision.
The 2024 Cap Nord is made exclusively from Syrah grown on the northern slopes of Crozes-Hermitage, with controlled yields that favor the natural concentration of the grapes. The vines are managed organically, continuing the estate's historic commitment to soil preservation and biodiversity. The harvest is done by hand to select the clusters and preserve their integrity until they arrive at the winery. Vinification takes place in small vats, with punch-downs intended to promote a gradual extraction of color, aromas, and tannins. This approach allows building a deep material while maintaining the characteristic finesse of Syrahs from the northern slopes of the appellation. The 2024 vintage, marked by contrasting weather and significant rainfall, should particularly highlight the freshness and precision of this terroir. Presented in a 1.5-liter magnum, Cap Nord benefits from a particularly interesting format for aging, favoring a slow and harmonious evolution while durably preserving the brightness of the fruit.
The 2024 Cap Nord should reveal a deep and refined aromatic expression, combining blackberry, blackcurrant, and black cherry with nuances of violet, black pepper, and delicate spices. Upon aeration, notes of licorice, black olive, and a discreet smoky dimension may gradually enrich its bouquet. On the palate, the material promises good concentration, supported by a precise tannic framework and freshness that brings liveliness to the whole. The personality of the northern slopes generally translates into a more vertical structure than that of Crozes-Hermitage from the southern terraces, with a particularly persistent expression of spices and black fruit. The finish should maintain a pleasant tension, accompanied by peppery nuances and a delicate mineral sensation. Thanks to its magnum format, this cuvée has interesting aging potential and can gradually develop aromas of leather, undergrowth, and truffle. It will pair particularly well with roasted pigeon with porcini mushrooms, herb-crusted rack of lamb, aged ribeye steak, or venison fillet, preparations that will highlight its depth and tannic finesse.
Grape variety: 100% Syrah
