Combier, Crozes-Hermitage Clos des Grives, 2012

Combier's flagship Crozes-Hermitage from a riper, more generous vintage than the year before. Clos des Grives comes from the domaine's oldest parcel, planted in 1952 on a clay-limestone plateau, farmed biodynamically by Laurent Combier and made as 100% Syrah with native-yeast fermentation and a year in oak. The 2012 vintage was warmer and rounder than the cooler 2011, producing wines with a touch more flesh and immediate appeal while keeping the freshness and structure that make this cuvee age. A benchmark for what serious Crozes-Hermitage can be; decant before serving.