Crozes-Hermitage and its wines

The the Crozes-Hermitage area lies in the northern part of Rhône Valley, in the department of the Drôme, in the region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. This area is famous for its rolling landscapes, its favourable climate and the unique terroir that is home to one of the most important appellations in French wine: the Crozes-Hermitage AOC.

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The Geography of the Crozes-Hermitage Area

The Crozes-Hermitage area stretches along the the left bank of the river Rhône, surrounding the famous hill of Hermitage. With a total area of about 1.500 hectares, is one of the largest wine-growing areas of the northern Rhône Valley.

Characteristics of the Area

• Gentle hills and natural terraces: The vineyards lie between 150 and 300 metres above sea level.
• Varied soils:
  • The north: Granite soils and limestone scree, perfect for complex, structured wines.
  • The south: Clay, sandy and pebbly soils, ideal for fresher, fruitier wines.
• Aspect: Mainly south-east, with good exposure to the sun for optimal ripening of the grapes.

Climate

• Continental with Mediterranean influences: Hot summers and cool winters.
• Mistral wind: This cold, dry wind protects the vineyards from damp and disease.
• Temperature swings: They encourage the development of intense aromas and good acidity in the grapes.

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Viticulture in the Crozes-Hermitage Area

Main Grape Varieties

• Syrah: The red grape variety that symbolises the area, known for its ability to express both elegance and power.
• Marsanne and Roussanne: The main white grape varieties, used to produce elegant, aromatic wines.

Production Styles

• Red Wines: The predominant production, with wines ranging from fresh and fruity to structured and complex.
• White Wines: They account for a smaller percentage, but are appreciated for their elegance and softness.

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Municipalities of the Area

The Crozes-Hermitage area takes in 11 main communes, including:

• Tain-l’Hermitage
• Pont-de-l’Isère
• Beaumont-Monteux
• Larnage
• Mercurol

These municipalities are the heart of the area’s viticulture, contributing their own local features to the diversity of the wines produced.

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Characteristics of the Crozes-Hermitage Area

• A varied terroir: It allows the production of wines ranging from fresh and fruity to rich and complex.
• Favourable climate: Thanks to the Mistral wind and the temperature swings.
• Ease of access: The area is well connected thanks to its closeness to the city of Valence and the main transport routes.

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Why Get to Know the Crozes-Hermitage Area?

The Crozes-Hermitage area is a symbol of the French winemaking tradition and an unmissable destination for wine lovers. This area is not only home to a prestigious appellation, but offers a unique experience thanks to its landscapes, its climate and the variety of its wines.